The UP Warriorz have named legendary Australian cricketer Meg Lanning as captain for the upcoming 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season. The announcement was made on 4 January 2026 in Mumbai by Capri Sports, owners of the franchise.
Lanning, a seven-time World Cup winner and one of the most decorated leaders in women’s cricket, was signed by the Warriorz for ₹1.9 crore at the 2026 WPL Auction. Known for her tactical clarity and calm leadership, she has previously guided Australia to two ODI World Cup titles and five T20 World Cup trophies, cementing her legacy as one of the game’s most successful captains.
The Warriorz management stated that Lanning’s appointment marks a strategic shift towards experience-driven leadership as the team looks to strengthen its core ahead of the new season. In the WPL, Lanning has been one of the most consistent performers, scoring 952 runs in 27 matches and establishing herself as a reliable top-order batter capable of anchoring innings and absorbing pressure.
Expressing her delight, Lanning said it was an honour to lead the side and praised the rapid growth and rising competitiveness of the league. Head Coach Abhishek Nayar highlighted her composure and ability to guide players in high-pressure situations, while COO Kshemal Waingankar described the move as a key step in shaping a strong and competitive franchise culture.
With Lanning at the helm, the UP Warriorz will look to mount a serious title challenge in WPL 2026.
