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Shikha Pandey Says She Wanted DC Return Before UP Warriorz Bought Her for ₹2.4 Crore in WPL 2026
India pacer Shikha Pandey has admitted that she was hoping for a return to the Delhi Capitals (DC) during the WPL 2026 auction, after spending three successful seasons with the franchise. Shikha played 27 matches for DC, taking 30 wickets, including 11 wickets in the 2025 season as the team reached its third consecutive final.
However, DC chose not to bid for the veteran seamer during the November 27 auction. Instead, an intense bidding battle unfolded between the UP Warriorz (UPW) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), eventually ending with Shikha being sold to UPW for a massive ₹2.4 crore—one of the highest prices for a bowler in WPL history.
Speaking to Sports Today, Shikha said she had enjoyed her time with DC and was mentally prepared for a comeback. But she acknowledged that auctions can be unpredictable and was ready to embrace a new chapter.
Shikha recalled feeling anxious on auction day. Initially away from the TV, she joined her mother only when her name appeared on screen. Watching two teams compete fiercely for her services made her feel appreciated.
She said, “I was happy that I was being valued. As cricketers, that’s what we want sometimes.”
Shikha also noted that the attention around women’s cricket is still growing, and price tags don’t carry the same meaning as in men's cricket due to differing media visibility.
Now with UP Warriorz, Shikha is expected to spearhead a revamped pace attack as the team aims for a stronger title push in WPL 2026. UPW will begin their campaign against the Gujarat Giants on January 10 in Navi Mumbai.
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Published: Nov 30, 2025
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