Here's why Alyssa Healy went unsold at WPL 2026 auction
What's the story
Australian women's cricket team captain Alyssa Healy shockingly went unsold in the recently concluded Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction. The right-handed wicketkeeper-batter was the first player to go under the hammer but failed to attract any bids from the five franchises. This has left many cricket fans and analysts wondering about the reasons behind her non-selection.
Auction details
Healy's absence from accelerated round
Healy, who had been with UP Warriorz for the first two seasons, was not included in the list of players submitted by the five WPL franchises for the accelerated round of mega auctions. This decision further fueled speculation about why such a prominent player was overlooked in this year's auction.
Performance history
Healy's impressive T20I record
Healy is one of the greatest batters in women's cricket, having played 162 T20Is for Australia since her debut in February 2010. In 143 innings, she has scored a total of 3,054 runs at a strike rate of 129.79. Despite her stellar record and experience as a former captain of UP Warriorz, the 35-year-old Healy was unable to find a buyer at this year's WPL mega auction.
Coaches' perspectives
WPL coaches explain their decision
After the auction, RCB's assistant coach Anya Shrubsole and UPW's head coach Abhishek Nayar explained why they did not bid for Healy. Shrubsole said Healy didn't fit into RCB's combination as they already have a strong top order with Georgia Voll providing off-spin. Nayar said it was unfortunate but given the rule of four overseas players in the XI, teams are limited in their options and often prefer all-rounders.
Team strategy
Delhi Capitals prioritize squad flexibility
Delhi Capitals's head coach Jonathan Batty also spoke about Healy's non-selection. He said that while they had her on their list, squad "flexibility" took priority over individual players. This highlights the strategic approach teams are taking in building their squads for the upcoming season of WPL.
Auction insights
Healy's base price and performance in WPL
Healy entered the auction at a base price of ₹50 lakh after being released by UPW. She missed last season due to a foot injury but has 428 runs in 17 WPL games at an average of 26.75 and strike rate of 130.48. Despite her impressive stats and current form with Sydney Sixers in WBBL, she failed to attract bids from any team during the auction process.