Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is already heating up, even before its January 9 opener that will be played between Royal Challengers Bangalore and defending champion Mumbai Indians. A big news hogs headlines with multiple marquee names withdrawing due to international calls and personal reasons. These changes mix heartbreak for fans with excitement for fresh talent, showing how women’s cricket’s global calendar is pulling stars in every direction.
First up, the United States of America’s (USAs) 27-year-old left-arm medium pacer Tara Norris, has opted out. She is named in USA’s squad for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal scheduled between January and February, overlapping WPL 2026.
Norris impressed in five WPL matches she played in the inaugural edition, grabbing seven wickets with the best of 5/29. UP Warriorz wasted no time, signing Australian uncapped all-rounder Charli Knott at her reserve price of INR 10 lakh. Knott’s batting flair and right arm off-break bowling could fill that void perfectly for UPW. In the Big Bash, Knott has added 775 runs from 57 innings and struck 6 wickets from 12 innings.
Australian stars Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland also opted out due to some personal reasons. Perry, RCB’s powerhouse, in 25 WPL games has amassed 972 runs at an average of 64 and strike rate of 132. Her clean hitting and composure under pressure made her a vital asset. RCB named 25-year-old Sayali Satghare, a right-arm fast medium bowler, as her replacement at INR 30 lakh. Satghare’s two WPL innings yielded 20 runs and one wicket; now’s her shot to shine big.
For Delhi Capitals, Sutherland’s departure leaves a big vacuum to fill. The all-rounder has played 17 WPL matches, scoring 150 runs and taking 13 wickets while best bowling figure in WPL reads 3/34. Delhi has turned to Alana King, the 30-year-old Australian leg-break bowler, at INR 60 lakh. Her highlight? A stunning career best 7/18 against South Africa in the ODI World Cup right here on Indian pitches.
These moves highlight WPL’s growing stature. International duties like Norris’s qualifier and personal breaks for Perry and Sutherland test team depths. Yet, they open doors for Knott, Satghare, and King players hungry to prove themselves. UP Warriorz gains versatility, RCB adds pace punch, and Delhi bolsters their spin attack.
Fans in India are excited for the upcoming WPL season. WPL 2026 promises a skill showcase, with uncapped gems potentially stealing the show amid the star power.
Loves all things female cricket