The wait is over. The hammer is up, the teams are locked in, and Mallika Sagar has officially opened the WPL 2026 Auction. With franchise owners, analysts, coaches and scouts gathered around the auction table, strategies are being tested in real time as bidding action intensifies.
But before the big buys roll in, there’s already a massive surprise.
Alyssa Healy – UNSOLD
The first player of the auction, Australia’s Alyssa Healy, entered with a base price of Rs 50 lakh. Despite expectations of interest in her wicket-keeping depth and leadership experience, there were no takers, and the seasoned Australian has gone UNSOLD in the opening round.
Anjum Chopra: “Ecclestone won’t come cheap”
Earlier, speaking on JioHostar, former India captain Anjum Chopra highlighted England star Sophie Ecclestone as one of the players expected to spark an intense bidding war.
“Sophie Ecclestone is a true match-winner and will undoubtedly command a strong price. Given the budgets teams have, she won’t come cheap,” Anjum said, adding that teams like UP Warriorz may consider using their Right-to-Match (RTM) card for her.
Former India cricketer Veda Krishnamurthy echoed the sentiment, praising Ecclestone’s all-round value.
“Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup,” Veda said. “She delivers her four overs with control and also contributes with the bat. She’ll be a highly sought-after player.”
Healy’s fitness a concern
While Chopra backed Healy’s experience and wicket-keeping strength, Veda pointed out questions around her fitness following a recent injury.
“There was uncertainty during the World Cup — she wasn’t at full strength in the later stages,” Veda noted.
Harmanpreet Kaur arrives – energy shifts
ICC ODI World Cup 2025–winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur has arrived at the venue, instantly lifting the atmosphere. Cameras swung toward her as she entered, a reminder of India’s emphatic title win against South Africa earlier this year.
277 players up for grabs
A total of 277 players — including 194 Indians and 83 overseas stars — are part of this year’s auction pool, promising high-intensity bidding and strategic battles between franchises.
Stay tuned for rapid updates as the auction unfolds.
