The upcoming 2026 season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) will be missing one of its biggest global stars. Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry will not participate in the tournament due to personal reasons, dealing a significant blow to her franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Perry's Absence and King's Entry
The news was confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which announced the updated squad lists for the five WPL franchises. Ellyse Perry, the iconic Australian cricketer, has withdrawn from the 2026 edition. While the exact nature of her personal reasons was not disclosed, her absence creates a major void in the RCB lineup, where she has been a pivotal performer.
In a swift move to fill a vacant overseas slot, the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise has secured the services of another Australian, leg-spinner Alana King. King, known for her wicket-taking ability and economical bowling, was brought in as a replacement player. This signing bolsters DC's spin attack ahead of the new season.
Franchise Retentions and Released Players
The BCCI's announcement also shed light on the final retention lists submitted by all teams. Each franchise was permitted to retain up to six players, including a maximum of four overseas cricketers. The retention window closed recently, setting the stage for the next player auction.
Apart from the Perry-King switch, the list revealed other notable changes. England's Sophia Dunkley, who played for Gujarat Giants, and South Africa's Shabnim Ismail were among the overseas players released by their respective teams. These players will now be available for other franchises to bid on in the auction.
Implications for WPL 2026 Dynamics
Perry's absence is a substantial setback for RCB and the league's profile. She is one of the most recognized and accomplished players in women's cricket, and her performances have been a major draw for fans. RCB's management will now need to strategize carefully to compensate for the loss of her all-round skills with both bat and ball.
Conversely, Delhi Capitals' acquisition of Alana King is a strategic gain. King adds a potent spin option to a squad already rich in talent. Her inclusion will provide more balance and variety to the DC bowling attack, making them a formidable side in the competition.
The player auction for the 2026 WPL season is expected to be a lively affair, with several big names, including the released overseas stars, entering the pool. Teams will look to rebuild and fine-tune their squads as they aim for the championship title.
