UP Warriorz secures Deepti Sharma in dramatic RTM showdown
Deepti, who entered at a modest base price of ₹50 lakh at the marquee, created an unexpected frenzy when Capitals of Delhi initially picked her up without competition. UP Warriorz, her former franchise, activated their RTM option, prompting DC to counter with the escalated figure of ₹3.2 crore, which UPW promptly matched to retain her services.
Previously acquired for ₹2.6 crore in WPL 2023, Deepti’s value increased by ₹60 lakh, reflecting her proven impact: 507 runs at a strike rate of 117.63 and 27 wickets across 25 matches, including a historic hat-trick and MVP award in 2024. Her leadership stint was captaining UPW last season, combined with the recent ODI World Cup Player of the Tournament exploits, has cemented her as a versatile asset capable of batting at any position and bowling economically at all phases.
This reunion strengthens the core of UP Warriorz in addition to acquisitions such as Meg Lanning (₹1.9 crore) And Sophie Ecclestone (₹85 lakh via RTM), leaving them strongly positioned despite modest pre-auction retention Shweta Sehrawat. Deepti’s contributions at all stages make her indispensable to a franchise looking for their first title after consistent play-off performances
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The top 5 most expensive purchases redefine the WPL market value
Deepti’s deal puts her in elite company and ranks second on the all-time WPL auction list, which is dominated by the extravagance of the 2023 inaugural edition.
| Rank | Player | Price (₹ Crore) | Team (edition) |
| 1 | Smriti Mandhana | 3.40 | RCB (2023) |
| 2 | Deepti Sharma | 3.20 | UP Warriorz (2026) |
| =2 | Ashleigh Gardner | 3.20 | Gujarat Giants (2023) |
| =2 | Nat Sciver-Brunt | 3.20 | Mumbai Indians (2023) |
| 5 | Amelia Kerr | 3:00 am | Mumbai Indians (2026) |
Mandhana’s record-breaking opener bid set the tone, with Deepti joining in Ashleigh Gardner And Nat Sciver-Brunt as all-round powerhouses that validate enormous investments through versatile performance. Recent highlights such as Amelia Kerr (₹3 crore, MI) and Sophie Devine (₹2 crore, Gujarat Giants) signals an escalating commitment for WPL 2026. These purchases underline franchises prioritizing proven T20 match winners amid rising global demand for women’s cricket talent.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
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