Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 begins on January 9, marking its fourth edition India‘s premier women’s T20 extravaganza. With five dynamic franchises set to clash across live venues, the tournament promises fierce competition, star-studded lineups and electric fan energy from the opening ball. captains from Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitalsand UP Warriors set the tone in a live pre-tournament meeting by combining camaraderie with cheeky exchanges that light up social media.
Meg Lanning’s ugly sled in Jemimah Rodrigues breaks up Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana
During the fun truth or dare segment at the WPL 2026 captains meeting, UP Warriorz captain Meg Lanning Delhi Capitals gave a merry sledge targeting the captain Rodrogus vote.
At the host’s suggestion, Lanning quipped, “So now you know how it feels when the home team doesn’t listen to you and continues to dance on the pitch.” The record harkened back to his Delhi Capitals days, when Rodrigues’ infectious on-field energy often clashed with Lanning’s tactical instruction.
The Mumbai Indians’ laughter started immediately. Harmanpreet Kaur and Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Smriti Mandhana pounding the table in stitches, their reactions adding to the joy of the room
The exchange highlighted the deep bonds that have formed between these stars, despite the franchise’s changes. Lanning, who led Delhi Capitals to three consecutive finals before being let go in the mega auction, now leads the UP Warriors after his bold acquisition. Rodrigues, who stepped into DC’s top job after Lanning, praised his former captain’s legacy of building a winning culture during a recent interview. With all five captains – Rodrigues, Lanning, Kaur, Mandhana and the captain of Gujarat Giants Ashley Gardener— banter around the table underscored the WPL’s unique blend of competition and respect.
We present the video:
Meg got a bit annoyed with Jemi dancing on the pitch during the matches…lol🤣🤣🤣😅😅
Also the reaction of Harman ..xd https://t.co/kIuqvs8Siy pic.twitter.com/Btn2nwbKZ7— Bonny 🎀💕 (@harryjeee) January 8, 2026
Also WATCH: Ellyse Perry shares emotional tribute to RCB ahead of WPL 2026 clash with Mumbai Indians
Lanning’s quest for redemption after 3 title heartbreaks
Lanning enters WPL 2026 with a bevy of unfinished business, chasing its first title since the league’s debut in 2023 after three gut-wrenching finals losses to Delhi Capitals. The Australian legend, who won five World Cups, turned DC into perennial contenders but watched the trophies slip away each time. Now, his appointment at UP Warriors heralds a new chapter, combining infectious leadership with tactical nous to end the drought.
Lanning’s hunger resonates amid the evolution of the league. After the mega auction, teams rebuilt their squads with Indian talent like Rodrigues and world-class qualifiers, which raised the stakes. His sled not only broke his peers but also set a battle-ready mood during WPL 2026. Fans await on-field fireworks, where off-field laughter heightens the on-field intensity.
Also READ: Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Squads: List of players and captains of all five teams
This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
