Players are selected through a new auction system introduced for the 2026 season. Teams can sign up to four players before the auction (a mix of retentions, overseas players and England‑contracted players), with the remaining squad places filled during the auction itself. Teams bid for players within a set salary cap and collar, and multi‑year contracts are now permitted. After the auction, squads are finalised through the Vitality Wildcard Draft, which rewards strong domestic performances.