Two of Australia’s leading women’s cricketers, Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland, will not feature in the upcoming Women’s Premier League 2026 season after opting out due to personal reasons. Their withdrawal comes at a crucial stage for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals, just days before the fourth edition of the tournament begins.
Both franchises have acted promptly to address the vacancies, announcing replacements ahead of the league opener. Bengaluru have added Indian all-rounder Sayali Satghare to their squad, while Delhi Capitals have turned to experienced Australian leg-spinner Alana King.
RCB Face a Major Void After Perry’s Withdrawal
Ellyse Perry’s absence represents a significant setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who had relied heavily on the veteran all-rounder’s consistency and leadership. Perry was central to RCB’s title-winning campaign in the 2024 season, delivering match-winning performances with both bat and ball.
Despite an injury-affected campaign for the franchise in 2025, Perry remained one of their most dependable performers, registering multiple half-centuries and maintaining control in key phases of matches. Her retention ahead of the 2026 season underlined her importance to the team’s structure, making her late withdrawal a tactical challenge for the defending champions.
Sayali Satghare joins the squad as a like-for-like all-round option, offering seam bowling and depth in the lower order. While she does not bring the same level of international experience, Bengaluru will hope she can provide balance and adaptability as the tournament progresses.
Delhi Capitals Opt for Experience with Alana King
Delhi Capitals have chosen experience over experimentation by bringing in Alana King as Annabel Sutherland’s replacement. The Australian leg-spinner has previously featured in the Women’s Premier League and is widely regarded for her control, consistency, and ability to apply pressure in the middle overs.
Sutherland played an important role in Delhi’s journey to the final last season, contributing crucial spells with the ball at an impressive economy rate. Her absence leaves a gap in the all-round department, but King’s proven T20 pedigree and international exposure are expected to strengthen Delhi’s bowling unit, particularly on Indian pitches.
UP Warriorz Forced into Change Due to International Commitments
UP Warriorz have also made a squad adjustment following the selection of American pacer Tara Norris for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to take place in Nepal later this month.
To cover Norris’ unavailability, the Warriorz have signed uncapped Australian all-rounder Charli Knott. Known for her composed batting approach and ability to contribute with the ball, Knott will be keen to make an impact in her first Women’s Premier League appearance.
WPL 2026 Poised for a Competitive Start
The fourth edition of the Women’s Premier League is set to begin on January 9, with Mumbai Indians scheduled to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening fixture at Navi Mumbai. Despite the late changes to several squads, the tournament is expected to once again showcase high-quality cricket and continue its role in elevating women’s franchise cricket in India.
As teams finalise their combinations and adjust strategies ahead of the opening week, early performances could prove decisive in shaping the direction of what promises to be another tightly contested WPL season.
