In New Delhi, former India skipper Anjum Chopra told reporters that Sophie Ecclestone should land a hefty deal during the first ever WPL 2026 auction this Thursday.
The event will feature 277 cricketers – 194 from India and 83 from overseas – setting the stage for a thrilling scramble among the franchises.
Chopra, joined by ex‑India batter Veda Krishnamurthy, pointed out that both Ecclestone and Australia’s Alyssa Healy are expected to shine brightest at the auction.
Speaking on JioHostar, she highlighted Ecclestone’s worth as a left‑arm spinner who can change a game’s complexion: “Sophie Ecclestone is a true match‑winner and will undoubtedly command a strong price at the auction. Given the budgets teams currently have, she won’t come cheap. Most teams are likely to consider her as a key acquisition.”
“Her left‑arm spin and control make her a valuable asset. While Delhi and Mumbai Indians might not prioritise her, teams like the UP Warriorz will definitely look to use their right‑to‑match card on her. Even Delhi could consider bringing her on board as a strategic option,” she added.
Krishnamurthy echoed that Ecclestone’s steady performances and all‑round contributions, especially in the World Cup where she proved herself as the top‑ranked T20 bowler, will make her a prized pick. She noted, “Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup, where she showcased why she is the top‑ranked T20 bowler. In the shorter format, she brings a crucial X‑factor, consistently delivering her full quota of four overs with an excellent economy rate.”
“Additionally, she can contribute valuable runs with the bat, making her a genuine match‑winner. Much like Deepti Sharma, Sophie will be a highly sought‑after player by all teams in the auction,” Krishnamurthy said.
Chopra also mentioned Healy, whose experience and wicket‑keeping skills are hard to ignore: “Healy is a formidable player with vast experience that can’t be overlooked. Delhi might consider her strongly as they look to fill the wicket‑keeping role, so there’s likely to be considerable interest from that side.”
However, the former captain cautioned that Healy’s fitness could be a concern, saying, “There is some uncertainty around Alyssa Healy’s fitness, as we observed during the recent World Cup that she wasn’t at full strength in the later stages. She was in the process of making a comeback from injury, which raises questions about her readiness.”
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