UP Warriorz (UPW) have bought back Deepti Sharma for a whopping ₹3.2 crore in the mega auction for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. The Agra all-rounder was acquired by the team using a Right-to-Match (RTM) card, the first ever for an Indian player.
This price took her close to the record held by Smriti Mandhana (₹3.40 crore) and once again made her one of the most expensive players at the auction.
Historic bid of ₹3.2 crore: RTM card makes a strong comeback
The auction got off to a slow start on Thursday, with Deepti Sharma’s base price at ₹50 lakh.
Lead: The bidding increased only between Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz, and eventually reached ₹3.2 crore.
Close to the record: At one point, it looked like Deepti Sharma could break Smriti Mandhana ‘s record of ₹3.40 crore, but UPW retained her in their team by using the RTM card at the last moment.
Significance of RTM: This is the first time a franchise has used this strategic card to bring back an Indian player after their release. This shows how valuable Deepti is to UP Warriors.
Deepti’s target: WPL 2026 trophy with UP Warriorz
Deepti Sharma was delighted to be back with her home team. She said she has a strong bond and fond memories with UP Warriors.
“It feels great to be back in this family. I played for UP Warriorz in previous seasons as well… This time our goal is to win the WPL 2026 trophy . The fans have always showered me with immense love. This season, I want all of us to work together to win the trophy for Agra and UP .”
Expert Opinion: Deepti is the backbone of Indian cricket
Former international cricketer and selector Hemlata Kala stressed on the importance of Deepti Sharma, saying, “Deepti has become the backbone of Indian women’s cricket today. Her calm nature, consistency and ability to finish matches have made her one of the most reliable all-rounders in the world.”
Emerging all-rounder Suman Meena is also included in the squad.
UP Warriorz have also included Deepti Sharma, an emerging all-rounder who is related to Deepti, in the team.
Suman Meena (₹10 lakh): All-rounder Suman Meena was bought for ₹10 lakh in the Women’s Premier League 2026 auction.
Suman was coached by Deepti Sharma’s brother Sumit Sharma, where she honed her all-rounder skills (batting and medium pace).
Suman Meena is joining the WPL for the first time and has captained the Under-19, Under-23 and Senior Board Trophy teams.
(Note: Aarushi Goyal remained unsold. Almas Bhardwaj and Anjali Singh did not get a chance to bid in the auction.)
