This year’s mega auction takes place shortly after an exciting Women’s World Cup. Only 73 of the 277 registered players earn a contract, including 23 foreign slots. Franchises have a combined INR 41.1 crore to spend, with UP Warriorz (UPW) holding the largest purse. Notably, the large group includes eight names, and their bids are expected to attract a lot of attention.
Indian all-rounder Deepti and pacer Renuka Singh are the headliners of the home contingent. They join international players such as Sophie Devine, Sophie Ecclestone, Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning, Amelia Kerr and Laura Wolvaardt. Interestingly, only Renuka (INR 40 lakh) and Wolvaardt (INR 30 lakh) have opted for a base price below the maximum slab of INR 50 lakh. Three major players, Deepti, Ecclestone and Healy, have previously represented UP Warriorz, who enter the auction with four available Right-to-match (RTM) cards.
Of the 277 participants, 83 are international players competing for the 23 foreign slots. England’s representation remains strong with 22 names, followed by New Zealand with 13 and South Africa with 11. Featuring Sri Lankan trio Chamari Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Inoka Ranaweera, while Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and USA’s Tara Norris stand out as Associate entries.
Among capped all-rounders, India’s Harleen Deol has positioned herself in the top tier with a base price of INR 50 lakh. However, Gujarat Giants cannot use RTM on Australian Phoebe Litchfield as they have already retained two foreign stars.
The first spinner set features Australia’s Alana King (INR 40 lakh), alongside India’s Asha Sobhana, Priya Mishra and former Mumbai Indians left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque (all for INR 30 lakh). UP Warriorz led the financial table with INR 14.50 crore, followed by Gujarat Giants with INR 9 crore. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (INR 6.15 crore), Mumbai Indians (INR 5.75 crore) and Delhi Capitals (INR 5.70 crore) round out the list.
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