Meg Lanning named UP Warriorz captain for WPL 2026

UP Warriorz have appointed Meg Lanning as their new captain ahead of the Women's Premier League 2026 season. The former Australia skipper takes over from Deepti Sharma, who had led the side last season in the absence of the injured Alyssa Healy.

Lanning was signed by the Warriorz for INR 1.9 crore at the mega auction after being released by Delhi Capitals, a franchise she had guided to three consecutive WPL finals. One of the most decorated leaders in the women's game, Lanning has captained Australia to an ODI World Cup title and four T20 World Cup triumphs.

In the WPL, Lanning has amassed 952 runs from 27 matches and is currently the tournament's third-highest run-getter. Warriorz head coach Abhishek Nayar said Lanning's experience and temperament made her the obvious choice. "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," Nayar said.

Lanning said it was "a real honour" to be entrusted with the role. "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," she said.

Warriorz were captained by Healy in the 2023 and 2024 seasons before the Australia wicketkeeper was ruled out of the 2025 edition with injury, leading to Deepti stepping in. Both Healy and Deepti were released ahead of the 2026 auction, with Warriorz re-signing Deepti for INR 3.2 crore, while Healy went unsold.

The franchise's best finish came in the inaugural 2023 season, when they placed third before losing to Mumbai Indians in the play-off. They endured a difficult 2025 campaign, finishing fifth with three wins from the season.