Top 10 Highest Paid Players in WPL Mega Auction

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction is already creating massive buzz, especially because some of the top women cricketers have been released by their franchises ahead of the mega auction. There are so many talented players from around the globe coming into the auction pool, and it is expected that a bidding war is expected to break records.

Franchises have expanded purse value of 15 crore INR, which makes the competition for premium players even more intense. In this article, we have picked the top 10 contenders who have the strongest possibility of becoming the WPL auction top buys for the upcoming season.

Highest Paid Players in WPL Mega Auction (Updated List 2026)

The WPL mega auction 2026 is expected to be very intense, with star players back in the auction pool. These cricketers are highly talented superstars of world cricket.

Whether it's power-hitting batters to wicket-taking bowlers or multi-skilled all-rounders, the following women cricketers are set to start a bidding war and become the biggest buys of the WPL auction 2026.

Who Will Be the Highest Paid Player in WPL Auction 2026?

Among all released players, the strongest contender to become the highest paid player in WPL auction 2026 is Deepti Sharma. Player of the tournament from the recently concluded ICC Women's World Cup, Deepti offers both match-winning batting depth and wicket-taking skill. Almost every team will likely go all-in for her as she is an in-form player who can take her team to victory from difficult situations.

10. Renuka Singh Thakur | India

One of India’s best fast bowlers, especially with the new ball, Renuka Singh Thakur's ability to swing the ball early and trouble top-order batters makes her a crucial powerplay weapon.

Renuka’s release from Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women's squad opens the door for multiple franchises to fight for her services, and she is expected to attract significant bids. Renuka was retained for ₹1.50 crore; the amount may increase this season and become most expensive WPL player in the upcoming auction.

9. Phoebe Litchfield | Australia

One of the rising Australian talent, Phoebe Litchfield has a bright future in T20 cricket. She plays with confidence, has excellent timing, and can adapt her game depending on the situation.

Her potential makes her one of the top contenders for highest paid WPL player. She was retained for INR 1.00 crore in the last season with Gujarat Giants Women.

8. Alice Capsey | England

One of the exciting young all-rounder, Alice Capsey, is known for her fearless batting style, quick scoring ability, and handy bowling options. She is potentially among the best all-rounders of women's cricket. Last season, she was retained for 75 lakhs INR by Delhi Capitals Women. This season, she might earn much more than that after coming in the WPL auction 2026.

7. Grace Harris | Australia

Powerful all-rounder Grace Harris is known for her explosive batting. She can take the game away from opponents in just a few deliveries, especially during finishing overs. In addition, her off-spin provides flexibility in team combinations.

Grace can produce match-winning performances, making her a great fit for teams looking for a strong middle-order batter. UP Warriorz retained her for ₹75 lakh in the 3rd season of WPL.

6. Sophie Ecclestone | England

The best left-arm spinner in women’s cricket, Sophie Ecclestone, is widely known for her control, variations, and wicket-taking ability, making her a natural match-winner in T20 formats.

Her being on the auction table puts a world-class specialist back into the market, and teams needing a premium spinner will not hesitate to invest heavily, which leads to her being highest paid WPL player after the auction.

5. Amelia Kerr | New Zealand

A top-quality leg spinner who can also contribute as a dependable middle-order batter, Amelia Kerr brings a rare set of skills. Her maturity and game awareness at a young age make her one of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket.

Kerr’s ability to win matches with both bat and ball makes her one of the top contenders for WPL auction top buys of the upcoming season. She has been one of the best players for MI Women.

4. Meg Lanning | Australia

One of the sharpest cricketing minds of the game, Meg Lanning offers a level of composure that few can match. Although she is not the most explosive batter, her ability to guide chases, build innings, and stabilise top-order batting makes her extremely dependable.

Her reputation and class guarantee that she will attract more than 2-3 bidders and that could eventually lead to a bidding war for her. It will not be a surprise she ended up as the most expensive WPL player after the auction.

3. Laura Wolvaardt | South Africa

South African women team captain Laura Wolvaardt is in red hot form. Her ability of playing long innings shows how difficult it is to get her out once she settle down.

Despite her classical style, her T20 game is too notch. She is a top pick for the franchises looking for a technically sound opener and a aggresive leader to lead their WPL team.

2. Alyssa Healy | Australia

Australian skipper, Alyssa Healy can become the highest paid player in WPL auction by showcasing her explosive batting, leadership, and wicketkeeping skills. Consistent match-winning performances, especially in Indian conditions, will make her a top target for multiple franchises, triggering bidding competition.

Her experience as an international captain, ability to dominate power plays, and reputation for handling pressure add premium value.

1. Deepti Sharma | India

One of the most complete all-rounders in women’s cricket today, Deepti Sharma has the ability to bat throughout the innings, building partnerships and getting important breakthroughs, making her a priceless T20 asset.

Deepti is coming after a successful World Cup campaign, and her performance made her one of the most famous women cricketers in India. All the franchises are always looking for a reliable Indian all-rounder, she is definitely going to bag a huge amount in the WPL Auction 2026. Considering her experience, versatility, and consistency, she is expected to be the highest paid WPL player.