After the success of the Women’s World Cup 2025, the focus now shifts to the WPL 2026; November will see the retention lists by all five teams, and subsequently the auction too, after a few days. But still there is a lack of clarity over the rules of retention. So, InsideSport takes a look at the WPL 2026 retention structure.
How many players can be retained in WPL 2026?
For starters, all five teams in the WPL must be ready with their respective lists by November 5. And since it will be a mega auction this time around, a maximum of five players can be retained by each franchise. In that too, either the players can be retained directly, or by exercising the right to match card (RTM).
Overseas player and uncapped player rule
As per Cricbuzz, teams can opt for three Indian capped players, two overseas players, or two uncapped Indian players. The condition is, if a team decides to retain all five, then at least one must be an uncapped Indian player.
Retention slabs
The BCCI has set fixed slab rates for the players, which must be deducted from the total pot of INR 15 Cr. Meanwhile, the franchises can pay more to certain players, but the amount will be deducted from the same purse. For example, if MI want to retain Harmanpreet Kaur for 5 Cr, they are within their rights to do so, but will have a 10 Cr left in the bank for other retentions and auction.
| Retention | Value |
|---|---|
| 1 | INR 3.5 Cr |
| 2 | INR 2.5 Cr |
| 3 | INR 1.75 Cr |
| 4 | INR 1 Cr |
| 5 | INR 50 Lakh |
WPL Auction 2026
After the retention list is finalised, the WPL auction is expected to happen between November 26-27. The last date for registration for players in Nov 18, while the final list will be out by Nov 20.
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