Delhi Capitals Women: WPL 2026 Auction Targets & Retention List

Delhi Capitals Strategize for WPL 2026, Eyeing Kerr and Athapaththu in Mega Auction

New Delhi – The Delhi Capitals Women’s cricket team is entering the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction with a solid foundation, having retained four key players – Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland, and Marizanne Kapp – alongside uncapped talent Niki Prasad. Despite consistently reaching the final, falling short each time, the franchise is determined to build a championship-winning squad. With a remaining purse of INR 5.70 crore and one Right to Match (RTM) card, the Capitals will be looking to strategically fill gaps and add depth to their roster. The focus appears to be on bolstering their all-round options and adding firepower to the batting lineup.

The Kerr Factor: A Top Priority for Delhi

The Capitals’ primary target appears to be Amelia Kerr, the New Zealand all-rounder who dominated the WPL 2025 season with the ball. Kerr finished as the league’s leading wicket-taker, showcasing her ability to control the middle overs and apply consistent pressure. While her batting form wasn’t at its peak last season, her overall impact makes her a highly sought-after commodity. Securing Kerr would provide the Capitals with a genuine match-winner and a versatile player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. Her leg-spin offers a crucial variation to complement the pace attack of Kapp and Sutherland.

Kerr’s 2025 WPL stats – 18 wickets at an economy rate of 7.75 and a strike rate of 82.95 with the bat – demonstrate her all-round capabilities. However, the Capitals will need to weigh her price against their remaining budget. A bidding war is anticipated, potentially driving up her value significantly. The team’s strategy will hinge on how aggressively they pursue Kerr and whether they are willing to stretch their resources to secure her signature.

Adding Depth: Athapaththu as a Strategic Backup

Beyond Kerr, the Capitals are reportedly considering Chamari Athapaththu, the experienced Sri Lankan all-rounder. Athapaththu offers a cost-effective option and provides valuable flexibility to the batting order. Capable of opening the innings alongside Shafali Verma, she could provide explosive starts and alleviate pressure on the middle order. While she hasn’t always been a consistent performer in the WPL, her potential value as a backup opener and handy off-spin bowler makes her an attractive prospect.

Athapaththu’s ability to adapt to different roles could be particularly useful in a long tournament like the WPL. Her experience playing international cricket will also be invaluable to the team. The Capitals may view her as a strategic addition, capable of stepping in when needed and providing a different dimension to the team’s approach.

Balancing Power and Spin: Assessing All-Rounder Options

The Capitals already possess a strong core of all-rounders in Sutherland and Kapp, but adding further depth in this department is crucial. While Deepti Sharma presents a compelling option – boasting a proven track record and leadership qualities – her price tag (INR 2.60 crore in 2025) could be prohibitive. The team must carefully assess whether her contribution justifies the investment, especially considering their limited budget.

Pooja Vastrakar, a frontline pace bowler with batting capabilities, is another potential target. However, recent injury concerns surrounding Vastrakar may give the Capitals pause. Chloe Tryon and S Sajana offer finishing abilities, but their primary strengths lie in batting, potentially making them less valuable than a genuine all-rounder. The Capitals’ decision will likely depend on their overall strategy and the availability of other players in the auction.

WPL Growth and the Rising Value of Women’s Cricket

The increasing competitiveness of the WPL is driving up the value of players, reflecting the growing popularity and investment in women’s cricket. According to Statista, the global revenue of women’s cricket is projected to reach $45.4 million in 2024, demonstrating the sport’s expanding commercial potential. This growth is attracting more talent and increasing the stakes for franchises like the Delhi Capitals. The WPL is not only a platform for showcasing Indian talent but also a breeding ground for international stars, contributing to the overall development of the women’s game. The league’s success is attracting significant viewership and sponsorship, further solidifying its position as a premier cricket competition.

The Delhi Capitals’ approach to the WPL 2026 mega auction will be crucial in determining their chances of finally lifting the trophy. A strategic blend of experience, youth, and all-round capabilities will be essential for success. The team’s ability to identify and secure key players, while managing their budget effectively, will ultimately define their fate in the upcoming season.