WPL 2026 Retention Updates: Smriti Mandhana, Ashleigh Gardner hits jackpot
WPL 2026 Updates: The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 retention announcements are in, with franchises making strategic moves to secure their core players ahead of the upcoming season.
Here’s a detailed look at which stars have been retained by each team:
Gujarat Giants
Gujarat Giants have opted to retain their Australian duo, Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney. Gardner, a proven all-rounder, provides firepower both with the bat and ball, while Mooney’s consistency at the top of the order makes her a crucial asset. With these two in their ranks, the Giants have ensured a strong overseas contingent to anchor their side.
UP Warriorz
UP Warriorz have retained Shweta Sehrawat as their lone player. The young Indian batter has shown glimpses of her talent in the past seasons, and the franchise is likely banking on her potential to anchor the batting lineup in the upcoming season.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have retained five key players, including Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland, Marizanne Kapp, and uncapped talent Niki Prasad. This mix of explosive Indian batters and experienced overseas players gives Delhi a balanced core. Notably, Meg Lanning, who previously led the team to three consecutive WPL finals, has been released, signaling the franchise’s intent to rebuild around a new leadership core.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
RCB have retained Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, and Shreyanka Patil. Mandhana and Ghosh provide stability at the top, while Perry’s all-round abilities are vital in balancing the side. Shreyanka Patil’s retention reflects RCB’s focus on nurturing young Indian talent alongside their seasoned internationals.
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians have retained their maximum quota of five players, including Harmanpreet Kaur, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, and uncapped G Kamalini. This blend of leadership, experience, and emerging talent gives MI a strong core to challenge for the title once again. Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and Sciver-Brunt’s consistency as a marquee overseas player will be key for MI’s campaign.
With these retentions, the WPL 2026 season promises to be highly competitive, as teams have secured a solid mix of experienced internationals and promising Indian talent. Fans can look forward to thrilling contests as franchises gear up to finalize their squads ahead of the new season.