WPL 2026: 3 franchises that can target Deepti Sharma in the mega auction

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Deepti Sharma is set to be one of the headline attractions in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction after her extraordinary performance in the recently concluded ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The star Indian all-rounder not only helped India clinch their maiden World Cup title but also set historic records, becoming the first cricketer—male or female—to score over 200 runs and take more than 20 wickets in a single edition of the tournament. Deepti played a key role in the final against South Africa, scoring a rapid 58 and claiming a five-wicket haul, earning her the Player of the Tournament award and rewriting the record books with 215 runs and 22 wickets overall.​

UP Warriorz franchise, which previously made Deepti the centerpiece of their campaign, will be among the teams most eager to bring her back at the mega auction. With a sizable purse of ₹14.5 crore after an aggressive release strategy, UP Warriorz are perfectly positioned for a high-stakes bid. Deepti’s familiarity with the local crowd and her captaincy experience add layers to her value for the Warriorz, offering leadership as well as all-round cricketing prowess.

She has featured in 25 matches for UPW, amassing 507 runs and 27 wickets, becoming a fan favourite and tactical asset. The franchise is in need of impact players to rebuild around, and Deepti fits the profile both as a match-winner and a face of the team who resonates with fans in Uttar Pradesh—making her return a strong probability.​

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Delhi Capitals are actively seeking a left-handed all-rounder to balance their predominantly right-handed batting lineup and add bowling options capable of handling pressure situations. Deepti’s versatility—successfully fulfilling lower middle-order and finishing roles, and excelling in all phases of the innings as a bowler—makes her an ideal candidate for Delhi Capitals.

Her recent marked improvement with the bat and her proven match-winning qualities in pressure situations have made her a prioritized target. The inclusion of Deepti alongside all-rounders like Marizanne Kapp and Annabel Sutherland would solidify DC’s ability to control 12 overs with quality all-rounders, a key strategic advantage for the team in crunch games.​

Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, are known for strengthening their squad with highly impactful domestic stars. With an auction purse of ₹5.75 crore, MI may bank on Deepti’s consistency and her ability to stabilize both batting and bowling lineups. Deepti’s proven record in crucial matches—especially her ability to deliver under pressure on the global stage—is exactly what MI looks for in experienced campaigners. Moreover, her presence would bring tactical flexibility and allow Mumbai Indians to rotate their bowling attack to lock down overs at both ends of an inning.​

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.