A strategic move forward Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 seasonDelhi Capitals (DC) have announced the signing of the Australian leg spinner Alan King as a substitute for comprehensive Annabel Sutherlandwithdrew due to personal reasons. The JSW-GMR joint franchise recently confirmed the development and hinted at a marked tactical change just days before the new season.
Perennial finalists in all three editions of the WPL so far, Delhi Capitals are reshaping their squad with the aim of going one step further and lifting their maiden title.
Excitement builds as Alana King joins the Delhi brigade
The announcement caused immediate excitement in the Capital camp. Team captain Rodrogue He welcomed Alan with an enthusiastic social media post, highlighting his great tournament pedigree and recent form. The franchise’s official support followed suit, showcasing Alana’s vibrant graphics in Delhi Capitals colours, symbolizing his dynamic on-field personality in skateboarding through graffiti-laced visuals. title, “Sil pray Queen,” said the Queen. quickly attracted the attention of fans.
Hashtags like #DilliKiQueen and #AlanaKingDC began trending, reflecting the buzz surrounding the signing and the anticipation surrounding King’s role in the upcoming season.
Annabel Sutherland tactical pivot of the exit force
Annabel Sutherland’s withdrawal is a significant loss for Delhi Capitals. The 23-year-old Australian all-rounder has been an important part of the team over the past two seasons, offering pace bowling options and late orders. Retained for ₹2.2 crore before the auction, the non-availability of Sutherland has forced the franchise to reassess its balance sheet.
Instead of looking for a similar seam bowling all-rounder, Delhi opted to strengthen the spin unit. Alan King Coming with a reserve price of ₹60 lakh, it represents a clear shift in strategy from the seam-deep to the spin variety – an approach that could prove crucial on Indian surfaces.
Alana King’s credentials and experience in Indian settings
Now 30, King brings an impressive resume to the Capitals. She gained global fame with her sensational spell of 7 for 18 against South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup, one of the best bowling performances in the history of the tournament. In 27 T20Is, King claimed 27 wickets with an economy rate of just 6.58, highlighting his control and wicket-taking ability.
Her recent Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) campaign with the Perth Scorchers further demonstrated her value as she scored 12 goals in 13 matches to help the Scorchers reach the final as runners-up. Although not sold in the WPL 2026 auction, Alana is no stranger to Indian conditions, having previously featured in a match for the UP Warriors last season.
Also READ: Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland have withdrawn from WPL 2026 due to personal reasons
Delhi Capitals are looking forward to clashing with Mumbai Indians and their first WPL title
Delhi Capitals will begin their WPL 2026 campaign against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the DY Patil Stadium on January 10. Alana’s arrival could prove instrumental on the spin-friendly tracks as Delhi again chases the elusive title after three runners-up finishes.
As other franchises adjust their rosters, the Capitals look rich, energized and hungry. With Alana’s talent and experience added to the mix, Delhi’s quest for WPL glory in 2026 looks more attractive than ever.
Also READ: 3 reasons why Gujarat Giants will excel in WPL 2026 under Ashleigh Gardner
This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
