UP Warriorz Head Coach Abhishek Nayar Explain Shock Decision To Release Deepti Sharma, Alyssa Healy Before WPL 2026
UP Warriorz head coach Abhishek Nayar explains the franchise’s bold call to release Deepti Sharma and Alyssa Healy ahead of the WPL 2026 auction, as they begin a full rebuild with ₹14.5 crore in hand.
UP Warriorz have created a stir ahead of the WPL 2026 auction by releasing two of their biggest names, Deepti Sharma and Alyssa Healy.
The franchise, under new head coach Abhishek Nayar, has chosen to retain only 20-year-old Shweta Sehrawat.
The decision surprised many fans, given Deepti’s consistency and Healy’s leadership experience. However, the management believes this overhaul was necessary after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
Speaking about the bold move, head coach Abhishek Nayar said the decision was part of a long-term plan to refresh the squad.
“The UP Warriorz have had some tremendous players over the years, but as we enter a new cycle, it’s important to make a fresh start. This doesn’t shut the doors for anyone, we’re simply reshaping the squad with a clear plan,” Nayar said.
He also mentioned that the team will rely heavily on the Right to Match (RTM) cards during the auction to bring back key players if needed.
The franchise has four RTM cards and a hefty purse of ₹14.5 crore, the largest among all teams, giving them major flexibility at the table.
The WPL 2026 mega auction is set to be held in New Delhi later this month. With UP Warriorz starting from almost scratch, all eyes will be on how Nayar and his team rebuild one of the league’s most unpredictable sides.
