WPL 2026: Meg Lanning named UP Warriorz captain
UP Warriorz on Sunday announced the appointment of Australian legend Meg Lanning as captain of the franchise ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season.
Lanning, who was signed by the UP Warriorz for Rs 1.9 crore at the 2026 WPL Auction, brings with her an unparalleled leadership pedigree and championship-winning experience. A member of seven World Cup–winning campaigns for Australia, Lanning has lifted two ICC Women’s Cricket World Cups and five ICC Women’s T20 World Cup titles, establishing herself as one of the most successful captains.
One of the most consistent performers in WPL history, Lanning has amassed 952 runs in 27 matches, showcasing her impact at the top of the order across seasons. Her ability to deliver under pressure, set the tone in powerplays, and anchor key chases has made her a standout player in the tournament.
“It is a real honour to be named captain of the UP Warriorz. As the WPL enters its fourth season, it’s been incredible to see how the league has evolved, the quality of cricket, the competitiveness, and the emergence of exciting new talent continue to raise the standard each year. This is a talented group with a strong mix of international experience and Indian players, and I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. We’ll work hard together and give ourselves every opportunity to lift the trophy,” Lanning said.
“Meg brings a rare combination of experience, clarity, and calmness that sets her apart as a leader. Her understanding of the game, ability to manage high-pressure moments, and connect with players makes her the ideal captain for this group. We’re confident she will play a key role in shaping the team’s approach this season,” Abhishek Nayar, UP Warriorz head coach, said.
Published on Jan 04, 2026
