South African star Laura Wolvaardt has been SOLD to Delhi Capitals (DC) for Rs 1.10 crore after an intense bidding battle with Royal Challengers Bangalore at the WPL 2026 Auction.
Wolvaardt, who entered the auction with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, quickly became one of the most sought-after overseas batters as RCB and DC kept raising the paddle, pushing the price past the Rs 1 crore mark.
The bidding unfolded rapidly:
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RCB: Rs 90 lakh
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DC: Rs 95 lakh
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RCB: Rs 1 crore
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DC: Rs 1.10 crore (final and winning bid)
Delhi Capitals eventually secured her services, making Wolvaardt one of their marquee signings of the season.
Expert analysis added context before the auction
Speaking earlier on JioHotstar’s ‘Most Wanted: TATA WPL 2026 Auction’, former India captain Anjum Chopra discussed how franchise strategies might centre around Wolvaardt’s impact:
“UP Warriorz are clearly rebuilding their team completely. They will be searching for a new captain and strong players. Laura Wolvaardt could be their target, she was the highest run-scorer in the Women’s ODI World Cup and her batting would strengthen their line-up. She might even become their captain while adding quality to their batting unit.”
Despite UPW being expected to target her, it was Delhi Capitals who went all-in to bring one of the most consistent batters in world cricket into their squad.
Wolvaardt’s credentials
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Highest run-scorer at the Women’s ODI World Cup
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Known for her anchor role and high-scoring consistency
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A strong leadership option for teams looking to rebuild
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One of the most reliable overseas top-order batters in women’s cricket
