WPL 2027 Auction: UP Warriorz Splurge Rs 1.10 Crore for Sophie Molineux, Reunite with Grace Harris
UP Warriorz make big moves in the WPL 2027 auction, securing Sophie Molineux for Rs 1.10 crore and bringing back Grace Harris.
The WPL 2027 auction in Kochi witnessed high-stakes drama on Wednesday as the UP Warriorz emerged as one of the most aggressive bidders, securing top international talent to bolster their squad. The highlight of the event was the intense battle for Australian all-rounder Sophie Molineux, who eventually joined the UP-based franchise for a staggering Rs 1.10 crore.
Bidding War: UP Warriorz Outmuscle RCB for Molineux
Sophie Molineux, a key figure in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) 2024 title-winning journey, became the center of a fierce tug-of-war between her former team and the UP Warriorz. The bidding began at Rs 50 lakh, but the price skyrocketed almost instantly as RCB jumped into the fray.
Within seconds, the bid climbed to Rs 95 lakh. UP Warriorz pushed the price to Rs 1 crore, prompting RCB to respond with Rs 1.05 crore. However, the Warriorz had the final word, sealing the deal with a decisive bid of Rs 1.10 crore to bring the Australian star into their fold.
The Return of Grace Harris
In another strategic move, UP Warriorz welcomed back a familiar face, Australian all-rounder Grace Harris. Harris, who had previously played for the franchise across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 seasons, was secured for Rs 30 lakh.
Harris had spent the 2026 season with RCB, contributing to their title success, but was released prior to the auction. Her release was reportedly linked to RCB's preparations for the return of Ellyse Perry. UP Warriorz acted swiftly, opening the bidding at her base price and securing her services without facing competition.
Strengthening the Core: Sneh Rana Joins the Ranks
Adding further depth to their all-round capabilities, UP Warriorz signed Indian star Sneh Rana. Having previously represented the Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitals, and RCB, Rana joined the Warriorz for her base price of Rs 30 lakh, as no other teams entered the bidding for her.
Other Key Auction Highlights
While UP Warriorz dominated the headlines, other teams also made their moves:
- Gujarat Giants: The franchise signed Irish all-rounder Orla Prendergast for Rs 30 lakh. Prendergast enters the league in formidable form, having scored 455 runs at an average of 35 and claiming 15 wickets in 15 T20Is this year.
- The Unsold Shock: In a surprising turn of events, Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu went unsold in Set 2, attracting no bids from any of the five franchises.
The WPL 2027 auction features a massive pool of 146 players competing for just 27 available slots across the five teams, ensuring a highly competitive selection process as franchises build their dream squads.