The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is once again expected to witness spinners grabbing headlines. With Indian pitches traditionally providing grip, turn,
and slower conditions as the tournament progresses, spin bowling is set to play a crucial role in guiding match outcomes.
Overseas spinners with experience in Indian conditions and a record of success are likely to thrive. Many have already shown their skills in previous seasons of the cash-rich tournament and troubled even the most brilliant batters. With franchise investing in overseas bowlers, they are expected to continue their fine form.
Here are the top 3 overseas spinners to watch out for in WPL 2026
3. Sophie Ecclestone (UP Warriorz)
England's Sophie Ecclestone could make headlines in the WPL 2026, with her left-arm spin, and is expected to play a crucial role this season. Released ahead of the auction, the world’s No.1 T20I bowler was snapped back by UP Warriorz. Since joining the franchise in 2023, Ecclestone has been their most consistent wicket-taker, claiming 38 wickets in 26 WPL matches at an average of 18.26 and an economy of just 6.73.
Her past performances across leagues make her a solid threat to the opposition. Ecclestone has already made a solid start to WPL 2026, ending with figures of 2/32 against the Gujarat Giants. With conditions likely to assist spin, she is set to grab headlines and lead UP Warriorz’s bowling attack once again.
2. Linsey Smith (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
England’s left-arm spinner Linsey Smith could be one of the overseas spinners to watch out for in the WPL 2026, despite a decent start to the season. Making her WPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women, Smith went wicketless against the Mumbai Indians, conceding 23 runs in her two overs at DY Patil Stadium.
Smith has been a consistent player for England, picking up 22 wickets in 12 WODIs at an average of 19.09, and 23 wickets in the shortest format of the game. In the WBBL, she has claimed 33 wickets in 34 matches. Most notably, she played a crucial role in Hobart Hurricanes’ maiden WBBL title, taking 15 wickets at an average of 18.46.
1. Amelia Kerr (Mumbai Indians)
New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr has already justified her price tag at the WPL 2026. Bought back by the Mumbai Indians for INR 3 crore, making her the most expensive overseas player at the auction, Kerr’s return has strengthened MI’s bowling attack.
Across three WPL seasons, she has scored over 430 runs and picked up 40 wickets, including a Purple Cap-winning campaign last year with 18 scalps. She has carried that momentum into the ongoing season, making an immediate impact, including a match-winning 3/24 against Delhi Capitals. Kerr is expected to play a crucial role as the Mumbai Indians look to defend their title.
