Australia batting maestro Meg Lanning said that he was very proud of being appointed captain UP Warriors for Women’s Premier League 2026 season, it’a real honor’ to lead the renewed party. The franchise announced on January 4, 2026, signaling a bold change of leadership ahead of the tournament’s fourth edition starting later this month. Lanning steps into the role with a sparkling resume, guiding the way Capitals of Delhi reached three consecutive WPL finals before being traded to Warriorz for INR 1.9 crore in the mega auction.
UP Warriorz named Meg Lanning as their new captain for WPL 2026
The Warriors handed over the captaincy to Lanning, who succeeded Deepti SharmaLeading the team in the 2025 season Alyssa Healyabsence of injury. Healy, the original skipper for 2023 and 2024, missed the entire 2025 campaign due to a stress injury to his leg and subsequent knee problems, paving the way for Deepti’s interim leadership, which saw them finish fifth with just three wins from eight matches. Both the unsold Healy and Deepti, who was re-signed for INR 3.2 crore with Match rights, were released before the auction as the Warriors rebuilt under the head coach. Abhishek Nayar.
Nayar said, praising Lanning’s humility a rare combination of experience, clarity and calmness Ideal for high-stakes games backed by his 952 runs in 27 WPL outings, third on the all-time list.
“Meg brings a rare combination of experience, clarity and composure that sets her apart as a leader. Her understanding of the game, ability to manage high-pressure moments and connect with players make her the ideal captain for this group.” Cricbuzz quoted Nayar about this.
A seven-time World Cup winner with Australia, including one ODI title and four T20 crowns as captain, Lanning’s tactical acumen shone through in leading the Delhi side to back-to-back finals. Set to buy franchise after playoff glory in 2023 (third place, eliminator loss Mumbai Indians), fourth in 2024 and lowest in 2025
Lanning’s thoughts on leading UP Warriorz ahead of WPL 2026
According to Cricbuzz, Lanning has promised a collective effort to chase down the elusive WPL title, highlighting the team’s combination of global stars and Indian talent.
“This talented group… I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. We will work hard together and give ourselves every opportunity to lift the trophy“, ” Lanning shared, noting the league’s rising standards in its fourth year.
He takes it as a key Englandof Sophie Ecclestone (INR 85 lakh RTM) and Australia Phoebe Litchfield (INR 1.2 crore) strengthens a core that is maintained Shweta Sehrawataiming for a better union after past inconsistencies
Under Lanning’s steady hand, the Warriors stand poised to overcome their near miss history and end their title drought. The Capri Sports franchise is heralding this as a new chapter, with Lanning’s proven composure laying the groundwork for WPL 2026 success under fire from Australia’s dominant era. Cricket fans eagerly await his impact from the dugout at Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium.
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This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
