WPL 2026: 3 franchises that can target Sophie Ecclestone in the mega auction

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The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Mega Auction promises to be the most intense yet, driven by the massive talent pool released into the market. Few names, however, carry the same financial weight and strategic value as Sophie Ecclestone. The world-renowned slow left-arm orthodox spinner was a major surprise omission from the retention list, having been released by the UP Warriorz.

Ecclestone, who was instrumental in the Warriorz’ campaigns, boasts a stellar WPL record, including being the joint-highest wicket-taker in the inaugural season with 16 wickets. Her overall WPL stats are formidable, with 36 wickets from 25 matches at an impressive average and an economy rate hovering around 6.68—exceptional figures in T20 cricket. Her unexpected availability, coupled with the introduction of the Right to Match (RTM) card system, sets the stage for a high-stakes battle. Based on squad gaps and available funds, three franchises stand out as prime contenders for the English star.

1. UP Warriorz

The UP Warriorz management made a bold, arguably risky, move by retaining only one player, uncapped Indian opener Shweta Sehrawat. This decision ensures they enter the Mega Auction with the largest purse and a full quota of four Right to Match (RTM) cards. While the intention is clearly to rebuild the entire side from scratch, the loss of their most effective and consistent wicket-taker is glaring.

The Warriorz were built around the stability and control Ecclestone provided in the middle overs. Her presence freed up other bowlers and allowed the team to dictate terms. Now, having retained only one player, the franchise has a massive void to fill in their bowling line-up. Re-acquiring Ecclestone using one of their four RTM cards or outbidding rivals in the main auction is not just an option—it is a strategic necessity. Doing so allows them to secure a known match-winner who is already familiar with the team environment, while still utilizing their massive purse to build a new core around her.

2. Mumbai Indians

The Mumbai Indians (MI) management showed faith in their proven championship core by retaining five marquee players, including Natalie Sciver-Brunt, captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, and G Kamalini. This strong retained contingent provides an explosive batting unit and two world-class pace-bowling all-rounders in Sciver-Brunt and Matthews.

However, the analysis of their retained attack reveals a clear requirement: a specialist, world-class spinner. While Matthews and Harmanpreet offer off-spin options, the team lacks a frontline slow left-arm orthodox bowler to complement their attack on the Indian pitches. Ecclestone’s ability to bowl economically and pick wickets at critical junctures would be the perfect foil for the pace and power-hitting style of MI. Her inclusion would transform their bowling unit from a good attack into arguably the most well-rounded and threatening in the league. As MI has used all their retention slots, they hold no RTM cards and will have to battle intensely with their remaining purse to secure her services.

Also READ: WPL 2026: 5 players UP Warriorz can target in the Women’s Premier League mega auction

3. Delhi Capitals

The Delhi Capitals (DC) have also retained their full quota of five players, securing the services of key batters like Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma, alongside world-class pace-bowling all-rounders Annabel Sutherland and Marizanne Kapp, and uncapped player Niki Prasad.

DC has strategically invested heavily in pace-bowling all-rounders, creating a formidable seam attack. However, much like Mumbai, this composition leaves a significant gap in the specialist spin department. With Kapp and Sutherland providing power and death-over expertise, the Capitals desperately need a world-class spinner to operate during the choking middle overs. Ecclestone’s control, consistency, and big-match temperament make her the ideal candidate to round out the DC squad and provide the variety they need to secure that elusive WPL title.

Also READ: WPL 2026: 3 teams that can target Kim Garth in the Women’s Premier League Mega Auction

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