The energy inside New Delhi's auction hall crackled long before the first paddle went up at the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction on 27 November.
With 276 players vying for coveted team slots,
the Delhi Capitals walked into the room with a clear strategy: reinforce their core, chase high-impact all-rounders, and build a squad capable of a deep title run. By the end of the day, the Capitals not only executed that vision but also delivered one of the most talked-about performances at the auction table.
What followed was a day marked by tactical aggression, sharp calls, and a few bidding wars that had spectators on the edge of their seats. DC's headline signings-West Indies' dynamic all-rounder Chinelle Henry and India's rising talent Nallapureddy Shree Charani-each secured at Rs. 1.30 crore, signalling the franchise's commitment to power, balance, and youth. With these moves, DC wrapped up their business with all purse money exhausted, finalising a 16-member squad and heading into the new season with renewed confidence.
DC's Retention Strategy: Backing the Proven Core
Before entering the auction room, Delhi Capitals had already made one of their strongest statements through their retentions. The franchise chose continuity, holding onto a core group that has brought experience, stability, and flair in previous editions. Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland, and Marizanne Kapp each remained with the Capitals at Rs. 2.2 crore, forming a formidable spine that blends Indian star power with global excellence.
The franchise also showed faith in promising Indian all-rounder Niki Prasad, retaining her for Rs. 50 lakh. This blend of established names and budding talent gives DC a robust and familiar foundation heading into WPL 2026. Retaining these players was not merely a matter of loyalty; it was a calculated move to preserve match-winning consistency while building a strong leadership group around which the rest of the squad could evolve.
DC's Bold Auction Buys: Power, Depth, and Versatility
The Capitals' auction table lit up when they aggressively pursued two high-value all-rounders-Chinelle Henry and Shree Charani-both scooped up at Rs. 1.30 crore each. Henry's pace, athleticism, and lower-order hitting make her one of the most impactful T20 players in the Caribbean circuit. Charani, on the other hand, brings domestic dominance and immense potential. Together, the duo adds flexibility and match-turning ability.
Beyond the headline buys, DC diversified across roles with calculated precision. South African batting mainstay Laura Wolvaardt came in at Rs. 1.10 crore, a steal considering her consistency and ability to anchor innings. The Capitals also fortified their all-round options with Sneh Rana (Rs. 50 lakh), Minnu Mani (Rs. 40 lakh), and Australian youngster Lucy Hamilton (Rs. 10 lakh). In the wicketkeeping department, they secured experience via Taniyaa Bhatia and explosiveness through Lizelle Lee, both purchased at Rs. 30 lakh.
The franchise concluded their business with smart budget picks including Nandni Sharma, Deeya Yadav, and Mamatha Madiwala, each of whom adds depth and agility to the bench-rounding out a squad designed for resilience as well as spectacle.
Retained Players
Auction Buys - Delhi Capitals (WPL 2026)List of players bought by Delhi Capitals at the WPL 2026 mega auction.Delhi Capitals - Final Squad (WPL 2026)
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Shafali Verma
- Laura Wolvaardt
- Deeya Yadav
- Marizanne Kapp
- Annabel Sutherland
- Chinelle Henry
- Nallapureddy Shree Charani
- Niki Prasad
- Sneh Rana
- Minnu Mani
- Lucy Hamilton
- Lizelle Lee
- Taniyaa Bhatia
- Mamatha Madiwala
- Nandni Sharma
| Player | Role | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jemimah Rodrigues | Batter | Rs. 2.20 crore |
| Shafali Verma | Batter | Rs. 2.20 crore |
| Marizanne Kapp | All-rounder | Rs. 2.20 crore |
| Annabel Sutherland | All-rounder | Rs. 2.20 crore |
| Niki Prasad (uncapped) | All-rounder | Rs. 50 lakh |
| Player | Role | Price / Country |
| Chinelle Henry | All-rounder | Rs. 1.30 crore - West Indies |
| Nallapureddy Shree Charani | All-rounder | Rs. 1.30 crore - India |
| Laura Wolvaardt | Batter | Rs. 1.10 crore - South Africa |
| Sneh Rana | All-rounder | Rs. 50 lakh - India |
| Minnu Mani | All-rounder | Rs. 40 lakh - India |
| Lizelle Lee | Wicketkeeper | Rs. 30 lakh - South Africa |
| Taniyaa Bhatia | Wicketkeeper | Rs. 30 lakh - India |
| Nandni Sharma | Bowler | Rs. 20 lakh - India |
| Deeya Yadav | Batter | Rs. 10 lakh - India |
| Mamatha Madiwala | Wicketkeeper | Rs. 10 lakh - India |
| Lucy Hamilton | All-rounder | Rs. 10 lakh - Australia |
