The WPL 2026 mega auction was marked by a significant surprise: Australian cricket star Alyssa Healy was not picked by any team. The experienced wicket-keeper batter, featured prominently in the initial list of marquee players, surprisingly went unsold after failing to receive a single bid. Speculation about potential strategies involving the accelerated auction rounds ultimately proved futile, as Healy’s name was not called again.
Coaches from involved franchises have offered explanations for this unexpected turn of events. Abhishek Nayar, head coach of the UP Warriorz, cited the tactical constraints of team building in the WPL. He pointed out that with only four overseas player slots available per match, franchises often prioritize players who can contribute across multiple facets of the game, such as all-rounders. This strategic focus, he suggested, can make it difficult for specialist batters to find a place.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru women’s head coach, Anya Shrubsole, detailed her team’s specific considerations. She indicated that RCB’s top batting order is already exceptionally strong, featuring established players like Smriti Mandhana. Moreover, with Georgia Wareham providing valuable all-round capabilities and Richa Ghosh already secure as their wicket-keeper batter, there was no clear role for Healy in their envisioned lineup. Healy was released by UP Warriorz and had set her auction price at Rs 50 lakh.