The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 was a thrilling showcase of world-class bowling, where skill, control, and fearless execution have played just as big a role as explosive batting. While fans often celebrate towering sixes and record chases, this season has also highlighted bowlers who consistently break partnerships and shift momentum at crucial moments. From experienced international stars to emerging domestic talents, the leading wicket-takers of WPL 2026 have demonstrated how vital disciplined bowling remains in the shortest format.
With tight spells, clever variations, and game-changing breakthroughs, these bowlers have not only dominated the statistics but have also shaped the narrative of their teams’ campaigns. In this article below, we explore the top five wicket-takers of the tournament, diving into their numbers, match influence, and impact on the evolving landscape of WPL 2026 bowling performances, leading wicket-takers, and standout moments from the season.
Sophie Devine – 17 wickets
Sophie Devine’s presence with the ball for the Gujarat Giants Women was nothing short of impactful this season. Finishing with 17 wickets in nine innings, Devine combined experience with smart execution, often stepping up during pressure overs. Delivering 197 balls across 32.5 overs, she maintained an average of 16.00 and an economy rate of 8.28, impressive figures considering the high-scoring nature of WPL 2026. Her best bowling performance of 4/37 showcased her ability to break crucial partnerships, especially during the middle overs, where matches often shift direction. Beyond the raw numbers, her spells frequently set the tone for Gujarat Giants’ bowling strategy, making her one of the most valuable all-round contributors among the top bowlers in WPL 2026.
Nandni Sharma – 17 wickets
Nandni Sharma emerged as a standout performer for Delhi Capitals Women, matching Devine with 17 wickets but doing so across a slightly heavier workload. Bowling 228 balls in ten innings, she delivered consistency with a bowling average of 18.58 and an economy rate of 8.31. Her standout spell of 5/33 remains one of the most memorable bowling performances of the season, highlighting her knack for delivering breakthroughs in clusters. Sharma’s ability to maintain control under pressure has been crucial for Delhi Capitals, particularly in defending totals where her variations and accuracy restricted scoring opportunities. In conversations around WPL 2026 leading wicket-takers, Sharma’s rise reflects the growing strength of domestic talent competing alongside global stars.
Nadine de Klerk – 16 wickets
Nadine de Klerk’s contribution to the champions Royal Challengers Bangalore Women can be best defined by precision and balance. With 16 wickets in nine innings, she has quietly built one of the most effective bowling seasons in the league. Delivering 192 balls across 32 overs, de Klerk maintained an impressive average of 15.68 and an economy rate of 7.84, numbers that underline her ability to control the flow of runs while still picking up key wickets. Her best figures of 4/22 demonstrated how lethal she can be when conditions suit her disciplined seam bowling. Her performances added much-needed depth to RCB’s bowling attack, often providing key breakthroughs, proving why she is among the most consistent bowlers of WPL 2026.
Amelia Kerr – 14 wickets
Amelia Kerr once again showcased her all-round brilliance with a highly effective bowling campaign for Mumbai Indians Women. Claiming 14 wickets in just seven innings, Kerr delivered impact with remarkable efficiency, averaging 15.00 with the ball while maintaining a tidy economy rate of 7.50. Bowling 168 balls across 28 overs, she consistently challenged batters with her deceptive leg-spin and intelligent field placements. Her best spell of 3/24 highlighted her ability to control the middle overs, an area where Mumbai Indians often built pressure and forced mistakes. In a tournament filled with aggressive batting, Kerr’s composure and tactical awareness have been vital, reinforcing her status as one of the best spinners in WPL 2026.
N Sree Charani – 14 wickets
N Sree Charani has been one of the most promising bowling stories of the season, delivering consistent performances for Delhi Capitals Women. With 14 wickets from ten innings, she has provided balance to the bowling unit, particularly during challenging match situations. Bowling 226 balls across 37.4 overs, Charani displayed impressive stamina and adaptability, maintaining an economy rate of 8.30 despite frequent exposure to high-pressure overs. Her best figures of 4/31 underline her ability to turn games around with timely breakthroughs. While her average of 22.35 suggests she often bowled in difficult phases, her willingness to take responsibility has been invaluable for her team. Charani’s rise reflects the growing depth of Indian domestic bowling talent in the WPL.
The WPL 2026 season has proven that bowlers remain at the heart of T20 cricket’s tactical battles. While batters may grab headlines with big scores, it is these wicket-taking performers who often dictate the outcome of matches through discipline, creativity, and resilience. From Sophie Devine’s all-round brilliance to Nandni Sharma’s breakthrough season, and from Nadine de Klerk’s consistency to Amelia Kerr’s spin mastery and N Sree Charani’s emerging influence, each bowler has left a distinct mark on the tournament.
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