Legendary former Australia captain Meg Lanning has been named as captain of the franchise ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season, the franchise confirmed on Sunday.
Lanning, who was signed by the UP Warriorz for Rs 1.9 crore at the 2026 WPL Auction, led Delhi Capitals to three straight finals in the first three editions of WPL but was released by the franchise ahead of the mega auction. While DC did attempt to bring her back, UP Warriorz managed to acquire to services because of the purse they had available.
Lanning, as a player, won two ICC Women’s Cricket World Cups and five ICC Women’s T20 World Cup titles. As captain, she led Australia to T20 titles in 2014, 2018, 2020 and 2023 and one ODI World Cup crown in 2022.
One of the most consistent performers in WPL too, Lanning has amassed 952 runs in 27 matches, forming a hugely successful opening partnership with Shafali Verma at Delhi Capitals.
“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,” Lanning said in a statement. “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.”
UPW had also brought back India allrounder Deepti Sharma at the auction for a price of Rs 3.2 crore, and spent Rs 2.4 crore on senior India pacer Shikha Pandey, who has been effusive in praise of Lanning in the past from their time together at DC.
“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, Head Coach of UP Warriorz, said.
