WPL 2026 Player Withdrawals Beyond Ellyse Perry
As the Women’s Premier League 2026 edges closer, squad planning has been disrupted by a series of withdrawals that go beyond Ellyse Perry. Annabel Sutherland and Tara Norris have also confirmed their non-participation in the tournament. These exits, driven by personal reasons, international commitments, and injury concerns, are quietly reshaping team combinations even before the first ball is bowled.
Ellyse Perry ❌
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) December 30, 2025
Annabel Sutherland ❌
Tara Norris ❌
Three major changes in WPL teams ahead of the new season. ⚡💥#Cricket #WPL #EllysePerry pic.twitter.com/8mFDtGluH8
A Growing List of Absentees Ahead of WPL 2026
The WPL has quickly become one of the most competitive leagues in women’s cricket. With that growth has come a packed calendar, and the 2026 season is already reflecting the pressure players face when balancing franchise cricket with personal priorities and national duty.
Annabel Sutherland Withdraws from Delhi Capitals
One of the biggest names missing from WPL 2026 is Annabel Sutherland. The Australian all-rounder, retained by Delhi Capitals, has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons.
For Delhi, this is a significant blow. Sutherland was expected to anchor the pace attack while also providing lower-order stability with the bat. Her absence removes a genuine multi-skill option from the side — the kind of player teams rely on heavily in a short, high-pressure tournament.
Why Sutherland’s Exit Hurts Delhi’s Balance
What makes Sutherland’s withdrawal particularly challenging is the balance she brought to the XI. She allowed Delhi Capitals to play an extra batter or bowler depending on conditions. Without her, the franchise may need to rework combinations, especially in matches where flexibility is crucial.
Alana King to be Sutherland's Replacement
Delhi Capitals acted swiftly by naming Alana King as Sutherland’s replacement. King arrives with international pedigree and offers control and variation through leg-spin.
However, this is not a like-for-like change. King strengthens the spin department but does not cover the seam-bowling or batting aspects Sutherland brought. As a result, Delhi may lean more heavily on their Indian all-rounders to fill the gap.
Tara Norris Misses Out Due to International Commitments
Another notable absence is Tara Norris, who will miss WPL 2026 after being selected for the USA women’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier.
This is a reminder that franchise cricket does not exist in isolation. For players from emerging cricket nations, international tournaments remain a priority, even when they clash with high-profile leagues like the WPL.
Impact of Norris’ Withdrawal on UP Warriorz
Norris offered UP Warriorz something unique — left-arm pace. Her ability to swing the new ball and bowl into the wicket made her a valuable option, particularly in the powerplay.
Losing that angle means UP Warriorz will need to adjust their bowling plans, especially against right-hand-heavy batting lineups.
Chali Knott to be Norris' Replacement
To address Norris’ absence, UP Warriorz have signed Charli Knott. Knott brings depth with the bat and medium-pace bowling, offering a different kind of versatility.
While she does not replicate Norris’ left-arm option, Knott’s presence gives UP Warriorz greater flexibility in the middle order, potentially changing how they structure their playing XI.
What Lies Ahead for WPL 2026
As WPL 2026 approaches, these absences add intrigue rather than uncertainty. Teams will adapt, strategies will evolve, and fans will witness fresh combinations take shape.
The league remains competitive and compelling. And as past seasons have shown, the WPL is as much about opportunity as it is about star power — sometimes, the most memorable moments come from those who step in when others step away.
