WPL 2026 Auction: Deepati Release, Mandhana Retained, Check Full List

The WPL 2026 retention lists have been released, and they are filled with decisions that will make the news: big names kept, unexpected releases, and clear indications of changing franchise strategy in advance of the massive auction. 

The main findings can be found here, along with a complete list of those who were retained and those who were let go.

Key Highlights & Strategic Shifts

• One of the most awaited events: Smriti Mandhana's retention by Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB) confirms her position as a key member of the team.
• At the same time, UP Warriorz released reliable all-rounder Deepti Sharma, which was shocking considering her recent results.
• Retention regulations are still tight (three Indian players with caps, two foreign players, and two Indian players without caps). Teams were required to keep at least one uncapped Indian if they managed to maintain a full quota of five players.
• The upcoming auction will become even more complex with the introduction of the Right-to-Match (RTM) card, which allows franchises to match the highest bid to re-acquire one of their released players.

 

Full List of Retained & Released Players by Franchise

Mumbai Indians Women

 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women

 

Delhi Capitals Women

 

Gujarat Giants Women

 

UP Warrioz Women

 

What These Moves Suggest

• RCB and the Mumbai Indians chose stability, securing their core and creating the conditions for continuity through retention.
• The Delhi Capitals seem to be changing course; the release of a legend like Meg Lanning points to an alternate approach to team building and leadership.
• Both the Gujarat Giants and the UP Warriorz pursued independence; the Warriorz, in particular, released a number of seasoned players and had the largest purse, suggesting a rebuild or aggressive auction strategy.
• The harshness of squad strategy is highlighted by the release of players like Deepti Sharma (despite her World Cup form): fit, role definition, and future vision now take precedence over previous records.
• A wildcard is included on RTM cards because franchises have the option to bring back players they have released if they believe the player will fetch a good price at auction. The huge auction might become even more unpredictable as a result.

What to Watch for at the Mega Auction (Nov 27)

• Price inflation for kept stars: Due to the heavy expense of keeping names like Mandhana and Sciver-Brunt, there will probably be bidding wars for the major players who are put up for auction.
• Domestic uncapped gems: Look for teams using the auction to acquire up-and-coming Indian talent, as the rule requires an uncapped Indian player when five retentions are used.
• RTM strategies: Who will make use of their cards? Will some teams hold off on matching a superstar who has been released until the auction threshold?
• Budget disparities: Will UP Warriorz spend early or wait for value plays, given their largest leftover purse? Others, like Delhi and Mumbai, are more restricted.
• Changes in the team's makeup: With so many well-known players available, we may see a greater mix of foreign players, opportunities for younger Indian players, and the emergence of new captains or leadership groups.

 

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