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The WPL 2026 auction proved to be a lucrative affair for several cricketers, with franchises loosening their purse strings to secure top-tier talent. While the headline-grabbing multi-crore bids often steal the spotlight, the real story of this auction lies in the massive salary appraisals earned by a certain few players.
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Based on the recent auction dynamics, here is a look at the players who witnessed the most significant financial growth compared to their previous season’s earnings.
1. Sajeevan Sanjana (Mumbai Indians)
Previous Salary: ₹15 Lakhs
New Salary: ₹75 Lakhs
Salary Hike: 400%
The most dramatic salary jump of the WPL 2026 auction belongs to the hard-hitting all-rounder Sajeevan Sanjana. A key figure for the Mumbai Indians in the previous edition, she was originally on the books for a modest ₹15 Lakhs. Recognised for her ability to finish games and clear the boundary under pressure, MI was determined to reacquire her services. The franchise successfully repurchased her for ₹75 Lakhs, translating to a staggering 400% increase in her pay packet, the highest percentage rise for any player in this auction.
2. Shikha Pandey (UP Warriorz)
Previous Salary: ₹60 Lakhs
New Salary: ₹2.40 Crores
Salary Hike: 300%
Veteran Indian pacer Shikha Pandey turned out to be one of the auction's biggest surprises and gainers. Previously representing the Delhi Capitals with a salary of ₹60 Lakhs, Pandey’s experience became a hot commodity this year. A fierce bidding war erupted for her services, culminating in UP Warriorz signing her for a whopping ₹2.40 Crores. This move marks a 300% hike in her earnings, a testament to the high value placed on experienced Indian pacers who can lead the bowling attack.
3. Amelia Kerr (Mumbai Indians)
Previous Salary: ₹1 Crore
New Salary: ₹3 Crores
Salary Hike: 200%
New Zealand’s star all-rounder Amelia Kerr continues to be a high-value asset in the league. After a stellar stint with the Mumbai Indians, where she earned ₹1 Crore, Kerr entered the auction pool only to be snapped up by her former team again. However, the cost to retain her talents tripled this time around. Mumbai Indians shelled out ₹3 Crores to secure the Kiwi superstar, handing her a substantial 200% salary raise and solidifying her status as one of the league's premium overseas players.
4. Shree Charani (Delhi Capitals)
Previous Salary: ₹55 Lakhs
New Salary: ₹1.30 Crores
Salary Hike: ~136%
Young spin sensation Shree Charani saw her stocks rise significantly following her impressive domestic and international performances. Having played for the Delhi Capitals in the previous season for ₹55 Lakhs, she was released into the auction pool but remained a priority for the franchise. The Capitals fought off competition to bring her back home for ₹1.30 Crores. This new contract represents a 136% increase from her last paycheck, rewarding her growth into a reliable match-winner for the team.
