5 Major player updates from WPL 2026; Meet the new faces and replacements

The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 officially kicks off today, Friday, January 9, with a high-voltage clash between the defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

The landscape of the league has shifted significantly this year following the mega auction and some high-profile withdrawals. Here is a breakdown of the key updates about players in this season:

1. Ellyse Perry's absence:

In a huge blow for RCB fans, top all-rounder Ellyse Perry has indeed withdrawn for personal reasons. She has been replaced by Indian seam-bowling all-rounder Sayali Satghare.

2. Meg Lanning’s new dhapter with UP Warriorz:

After leading Delhi Capitals for three seasons, the legendary Meg Lanning has moved to the UP Warriorz as their new captain.

3. Delhi Capitals' new lead:

With Lanning gone, Jemimah Rodrigues has taken over the captaincy for the Delhi Capitals.

4. Replacement for Annabel Sutherland

Alana King joins Delhi Capitals as a replacement for Annabel Sutherland (who also withdrew for personal reasons).

5. Tara Norris replacement

Charli Knott joins UP Warriorz as a replacement for Tara Norris.

IPL 2026: Will RCB change their home venue?