UP Warriorz Appoint Meg Lanning as Captain Ahead of WPL 2026
Meg Lanning replaces Deepti Sharma as UP Warriorz captain for WPL 2026, aiming to lead the team to its first title.
UP Warriorz have named Meg Lanning as their new captain for the Women’s Premier League 2026, replacing Deepti Sharma, who led the side last season.
Lanning will lead a WPL team for the fourth straight season. She earlier captained Delhi Capitals to three consecutive finals, though the title stayed out of reach. UP Warriorz are hoping her calm leadership helps them go one step further.
The Australian great is one of the most decorated captains in women’s cricket. She has won five T20 World Cups and two ODI World Cups, and is now chasing her first WPL trophy with a new franchise.
Head coach Abhishek Nayar said Lanning’s experience made the decision clear. He pointed to her composure under pressure and her ability to connect with players as key strengths that can lift the group.
“This is a talented group with a strong mix of international experience and Indian players,” Lanning said. “I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. We’ll work hard together and give ourselves every opportunity to lift the trophy.”
Nayar echoed that confidence. “Meg brings a rare combination of experience, clarity, and calmness,” he said. “Her understanding of the game and ability to manage big moments makes her the ideal captain for this group.”
The leadership change is a major shift for UP Warriorz, who are still chasing their first WPL final. Deepti remains a key player in the squad and is expected to support Lanning both on and off the field.
WPL 2026 begins on Friday, January 9. UP Warriorz open their campaign against Gujarat Giants on Saturday. They then face Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the 2024 champions, who are also looking to build early momentum.
The Warriorz squad for the season includes Shweta Sehrawat, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Meg Lanning as captain, Phoebe Litchfield as wicketkeeper, Kiran Navgire and Harleen Deol, among others.
Lanning’s move from Delhi to UP is one of the biggest stories of the new season. With her record and calm presence, the Warriorz are betting big on proven leadership to finally break their title and finals drought.
