Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 has suffered a major blow as Australian stars alyce perry And Annabel Sutherland Has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons. The announcement of his withdrawal comes less than two weeks before the start of the fourth edition, making Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) And Delhi Capitals (DC) Has been forced to make changes to his team at the last minute.
Perry’s departure is a big blow for RCB, which has built much of its recent success around the experienced all-rounder. The Australian played a key role in Bangalore’s championship win in 2024, becoming the Orange Cap holder at the end of the season with 347 runs at an average of 69.40, while also taking seven wickets in nine matches.
Even during the injury-hit 2025 season, Perry remained RCB’s most reliable player, scoring 372 runs in just eight matches, including four half-centuries. His consistency with the bat and calm leadership made him an important part of the franchise, which retained him for Rs 2 crore ahead of WPL 2026.
To fill this gap, RCB has appointed the Indian all-rounder. Sayali Satghare Has been signed for his reserve price of Rs 30 lakh. While Satghare brings home-grown experience and versatile ability, replacing Perry’s influence will be a challenge for the defending champions.
Delhi Capitals have also been forced to rethink their team balance after Sutherland’s withdrawal. The Australian all-rounder played a key role in DC’s reach to the final last season, taking nine wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.57 and providing depth with the bat. His performances earned him the opportunity to retain him for Rs 2.2 crore, which shows the confidence the franchise has in his abilities.
In response, DC signed Australian leg-spinner alana king Has been signed for Rs 60 lakh. King, who has previously represented UP Warriorz, adds significant international experience to the Capitals’ bowling attack, having taken 27 wickets in 27 T20 Internationals. His inclusion strengthens DC’s spin resources, although it will be difficult to compensate for Sutherland’s all-round value.
Meanwhile, UP Warriorz has also announced a team update, which will include America’s fast bowler tara norris She will skip this season as she has been selected for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier to be held in Nepal from January 18 to February 1. Warriorz replaced him with uncapped Australian all-rounder Charlie Knott Has been named at the reserve price of Rs 10 lakh.
