The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 retention list, disclosed on November 6, 2025, surprised fans across India. Many well-known players were released before the mega auction later this month. Some of the most surprising names that came across were Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh, Harleen Deol, Kranti Goud, and Pooja Vastrakar.
Their exit has raised questions about team strategies, purse management, and changing priorities of franchises.
5. Pooja Vastrakar – A Surprising Exit for a Key All-Rounder
Pooja Vastrakar’s name on the released list surprised many fans. The all-rounder is known for her ability to swing the ball at decent pace and contribute valuable lower-order runs. Over the past few seasons, she has been a match-winner for both India and Mumbai Indians.
Injuries and fitness issues may have influenced the team’s decision. However, it’s also possible that the franchise wanted to refresh its all-round department and bring in overseas competition. With her international experience, teams will be aiming to add her in their squad.
4. Kranti Goud – A Promising Youngster Released Early
Among the lesser-known names, Kranti Goud’s release stood out for a different reason. The young right-arm medium pacer had shown promise in domestic tournaments and was considered one of the emerging fast-bowling talents in Indian cricket.
The UP Warriorz, who released several players including Deepti Sharma, also parted ways with Kranti. Their decision seems to be part of a complete rebuild, but for a developing player, it could prove to be an opportunity. At the auction, Kranti might attract bids from teams looking to invest in young Indian fast bowlers, a rare asset in women’s cricket.
3. Harleen Deol – Gujarat Giants Drop a Versatile Performer
Harleen Deol’s release by Gujarat Giants surprised many. She is known for her sharp fielding, smooth batting, and useful leg-spin, the kind of all-round skills every T20 team values. A regular in India’s middle order, Harleen added experience and balance to the Giants’ squad.
The decision seems purely strategic. Gujarat Giants, who retained only two overseas players, are believed to be planning a major squad overhaul to strengthen their core. Still, releasing an experienced Indian player like Harleen, who can bat anywhere in the order, is a big call. Her presence in the auction pool will make her one of the most sought-after domestic names.
2. Renuka Singh – RCB Parts Ways with Its Strike Bowler
Renuka Singh Thakur’s departure from Royal Challengers Bengaluru shocked many. Over the past few seasons, she became India’s frontline pacer, known for her ability to swing the new ball and strike early. Her disciplined bowling had been crucial to RCB’s attack.
Sources which were close to the franchise hinted that RCB wanted to restructure their bowling lineup and invest in younger pacers or overseas quick bowlers. Renuka’s release gives them more financial flexibility in the auction. Teams are expected to pursue her aggressively at the auction.
1. Deepti Sharma – UP Warriorz’s Boldest Decision
Deepti Sharma’s release is perhaps the most unexpected of all. The star all-rounder has been one of India’s most reliable performers in both white-ball formats. She was named Player of the Tournament at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, where she delivered crucial all-round performances.
Despite that form, the UP Warriorz decided not to retain her. Reports suggest the franchise wanted to reset its squad structure and free up purse space for new signings. Still, letting go of a player who offers control with the ball and stability with the bat feels like a high-risk move.
Deepti’s name in the auction pool ensures intense bidding among franchises needing a world-class Indian all-rounder.
Why Did Teams Make These Bold Calls?
Although these releases has shocked fans, the reasoning behind them reflects how WPL teams now think more strategically:
- Purse Management: Releasing top players frees up crores of rupees to chase new signings.
- Squad Balance: Teams may prefer different role mixes, extra finishers, power hitters, or overseas bowlers.
- Form and Fitness: Injuries or inconsistent performances can influence retention calls.
- Future Planning: Some franchises are focusing on building young squads for the long term rather than retaining high-priced stars.
In short, these decisions are not about performance alone, they are about team vision and flexibility.
Impact on the WPL 2026 Mega Auction
The upcoming WPL 2026 Mega Auction, scheduled for November 27, will now have a deeper talent pool thanks to these releases. Indian players are always in high demand since teams must field a minimum number of domestic cricketers in their XI.
Deepti Sharma and Pooja Vastrakar will headline the all-rounders’ category, while Renuka Singh remains the biggest Indian pace option available. Harleen Deol and Kranti Goud could also attract multiple bidders as franchises aim to strengthen their Indian core.
Fans can expect aggressive bidding wars, particularly between franchises like Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and UP Warriorz, all of whom are eyeing a balanced mix of star power and future potential.
Conclusion
The release of Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh, Harleen Deol, Kranti Goud, and Pooja Vastrakar highlights how competitive and unpredictable the WPL has become. Teams are making bold choices for long-term goals, while fans await the 2026 auction with excitement to see where these players land next.
Written by Kinjal Walantra