Deepti Sharma emerged as one of the headline-grabbing names at the WPL 2026 auction after being bought back by UP Warriorz for ₹3.2 crore via the Right-to-Match (RTM) option, making her the joint-second most expensive player in the tournament’s history.
The dramatic episode began when Deepti was initially purchased by Delhi Capitals for her base price of ₹50 lakh. However, the Warriorz immediately activated their RTM card, prompting Delhi to declare their final bid. DC settled on ₹3.2 crore, and UP Warriorz matched the amount to reclaim the World Cup-winning all-rounder for a significantly higher price.
Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘Match Centre Live Auction Special’, Deepti expressed her excitement over returning to a franchise that feels like home.
“I’m from Uttar Pradesh and have strong ties with UP Warriorz. The management has always been excellent and supportive. The auction was thrilling from the start, and I’m delighted that the UP Warriorz bought me back. I’m excited to represent them again,” she said.
WPL Helped Me Grow as a Batter: Deepti
Reflecting on her journey, Deepti highlighted how the Women’s Premier League has been instrumental in evolving her batting approach.
“The WPL has played a massive role in my development. The year I won MVP, and even before that, the intense practice to expand my batting shots paid off tremendously. That season helped me mature significantly as a batter, teaching me how to elevate my strike rate strategically by adapting my game plan.”
She added that the atmosphere within the Warriorz camp is energising, especially with several new players joining the squad.
“I’m feeling positive seeing new players from different teams join UP Warriorz. Having played with many of them before creates a comfortable vibe. The management remains incredibly supportive, and the changes I made to my batting two years ago were transformative.”
Excited to Team Up with Phoebe Litchfield and Meg Lanning
Deepti also spoke about the team’s latest additions, including rising Australian talent Phoebe Litchfield and legendary Australian captain Meg Lanning. She praised both cricketers but pointed to Litchfield as the player she is most excited to team up with this season.
“It’s tough to pick just one because players like Phoebe Litchfield and Meg Lanning are performing brilliantly. Meg Lanning has been outstanding in the Big Bash, while Harleen Deol shone in the World Cup. They’re all exciting additions, but if I had to choose, I’d go with Phoebe Litchfield.”
With a strengthened squad and their star all-rounder back in the lineup, UP Warriorz are gearing up for what promises to be one of their most competitive WPL seasons yet.