Despite a stunning captaincy record, Meg Lanning has been released by the Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction. The franchise retained Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, and Niki Prasad, but the exclusion of Lanning — who led DC to three consecutive finals — has come as a major shock to fans and cricket pundits alike.
Under Lanning’s leadership, Delhi Capitals were among the most consistent sides in the tournament, showcasing strong team balance and tactical brilliance. Her calm presence, sharp cricketing brain, and ability to perform under pressure made her one of the most valuable players in the league. However, her release indicates that DC may be looking for a squad overhaul or possibly a fresh leadership direction.
3 franchises who can target Meg Lanning in WPL 2026 mega auction
As the auction approaches, Lanning’s availability has instantly made her one of the most sought-after names in the player pool. Given her experience, batting class, and leadership credentials, several teams are expected to enter a fierce bidding war for her services. Let’s take a look at three franchises that could go all out to secure the Australian great in the WPL 2026 mega auction.
1) UP Warriorz – A team ready for a new era
UP Warriorz have undergone a complete transformation ahead of the new season. The franchise released most of its high-profile names, including former captain Alyssa Healy and India’s star all-rounder Deepti Sharma, retaining only one uncapped Indian player. This drastic reshuffle has left them with the largest remaining purse and all four Right to Match (RTM) cards — a combination that gives them both flexibility and financial power in the auction.
With a blank slate and a clear opportunity to rebuild, the UP Warriorz are perfectly positioned to target Lanning as their new leader. Her tactical acumen and calm demeanor could bring much-needed structure and direction to a side looking to re-establish itself. Moreover, since UPW did not retain Deepti — who captained the team last season — the captaincy position is vacant, making Lanning an ideal candidate to fill that leadership void.
Bringing in a proven winner like Lanning could not only uplift the squad’s morale but also attract young Indian talents who would benefit immensely from her experience.
2) Gujarat Giants – Building an Australian core again
Gujarat Giants have opted for a minimal retention approach, holding on to only two key overseas players: Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner. This decision has given them a massive auction purse along with three RTM cards, allowing them to be major players in the bidding event.
Given their retained duo, it’s evident that the Giants value the stability and chemistry of Australian players, and Lanning would fit perfectly into this setup. Mooney, Gardner, and Lanning have all shared success at the international level, and reuniting them could create one of the most formidable overseas cores in WPL history.
Moreover, Lanning’s arrival would give Gujarat multiple leadership options. While Mooney and Gardner have led Australia and the Giants previously, Lanning’s proven record as a captain could help the franchise strategize better in crunch moments. Her inclusion could also bring balance to their top order, which struggled for consistency in past editions.
3) Delhi Capitals – A possible reunion on the cards
While Delhi Capitals’ decision to release Lanning left everyone baffled, there remains a strong possibility of them attempting to buy her back at a lower price. Last season, Lanning was retained for ₹1.10 crore, but considering her career stage and the team’s financial planning, DC might have released her with a strategic intention — to re-sign her during the auction for a more manageable figure.
Lanning’s familiarity with the DC setup, her rapport with players like Rodrigues and Shafali, and her successful track record with the franchise make her a natural fit should they decide to bring her back. Even if DC seeks a leadership transition, having Lanning as a senior batter and mentor could prove invaluable in guiding the next generation of stars.
Lanning’s impressive WPL record
Since the inception of the WPL, Lanning has been one of the tournament’s most consistent performers. In 27 matches, she has amassed 952 runs at a strike rate of 127, with nine half-centuries to her name. Her ability to anchor innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate makes her a prized asset in T20 cricket.
With such credentials and unmatched leadership pedigree, Lanning will undoubtedly be one of the hottest names in the WPL 2026 mega auction. Whether she reunites with Delhi Capitals, leads a restructured UP Warriorz, or becomes part of Gujarat Giants’ Australian core, one thing is certain — the upcoming auction is going to witness an intense bidding battle for one of cricket’s greatest minds.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
