Injured Stars Remain Auction Eligible for WPL 2026

The upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction will see several injured players available for selection, although they will not be part of any team’s squad. Injuries have sidelined top-order batter Pratika Rawal, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, and pacer VJ Joshitha, yet their names will remain in the auction pool. This decision comes after Australian player Jess Jonassen withdrew from the auction due to her own injury.

During a pre-auction briefing held on March 4, 2026, WPL officials informed franchises that while the injured players can be selected, they cannot contribute towards the mandatory 15-member squad quota. Should any team choose to sign them, they will not be permitted to seek replacements later. This announcement comes as part of the WPL’s efforts to maintain competitive balance while accommodating player health.

Despite being injured, Indian pacer Pooja Vastrakar is still expected to participate in the auction as she continues to work towards full fitness. In contrast, player Kashvee Gautam has been confirmed as match-ready, providing teams with options as they prepare for the auction.

Jonassen Withdraws Amid Injury Concerns

The withdrawal of Jess Jonassen marks a significant loss for the league. The 33-year-old left-arm spinner has made a notable impact in the WPL, earning five Player-of-the-Match awards, which places her just behind Harmanpreet Kaur, who has seven. Jonassen has been managing a persistent shoulder injury and has decided to focus on recovery rather than risk further complications.

The WPL 2026 auction is set to feature a host of cricketing talents, with marquee players such as Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning, Amelia Kerr, and Laura Wolvaardt highlighting the event. The inclusion of Indian stars like Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh ensures a high-profile start when bidding commences.

In total, 276 players will be available during the mega auction, comprising 194 Indian and 82 overseas players. The five participating teams will aim to fill up to 73 slots, which includes 50 Indian and 23 overseas players. Each squad must consist of a minimum of 15 players and a maximum of 18 players. Additionally, four associate players have been included in the auction list: Theertha Satish and Esha Oza from the UAE, Tara Norris from the USA, and Thipatcha Putthawong from Thailand.

As the auction approaches, teams will strategize on how to maximize their rosters while considering the health status of key players. The WPL continues to evolve, drawing significant attention to women’s cricket and providing a platform for emerging talents.