The Women's Premier League (WPL 2026) is heating up just a day after its January 9 kickoff. Today brings the first double header, with Gujarat Giants clashing against UP Warriorz in the opener at 3:00 PM IST at DY Patil Stadium. This matchup promises fireworks as both teams chase their maiden title, making it a must-watch for cricket fans amid the league's growing global buzz.
Meg Lanning Takes UP Warriorz Helm
UP Warriorz enters with a leadership shake-up. Australian star Meg Lanning steps in as the new captain, bringing her proven track record from Delhi Capitals' three straight finals. Her calm tactics and big-match temperament could be the edge UPW needs. Fans are buzzing—will Lanning spark an immediate turnaround after UPW's mixed past seasons?
This shift matters now as WPL 2026 eyes bigger audiences post-India's T20 World Cup success. Lanning's arrival injects star power, drawing parallels to how strong captains like Smriti Mandhana elevated Mumbai Indians to two titles.
Gujarat Giants' All-Rounder Edge with Ashleigh Gardner
Gujarat Giants, captained by Ashleigh Gardner, bounced back last season with a playoff spot after early struggles. Gardner remains their X-factor. The Aussie all-rounder boasts 567 runs at a blistering 141.75 strike rate and 25 wickets—her best 3/31. Paired with Beth Mooney's opening firepower and spinners like Georgia Wareham, GG looks balanced.
Head-to-head, it's dead even: 3 wins each in 6 meetings. Expect a thriller, with Gujarat's foreign core testing UPW's depth.
Key Players to Watch: Deepti and Ecclestone for UPW
UP Warriorz leans on homegrown Deepti Sharma (507 runs, SR 117.63, best 88) for explosive starts and all-round utility. Sophie Ecclestone dominates bowling with 36 wickets (best 4/13, econ 6.68), choking oppositions relentlessly.
Possible Playing 11:
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Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner (c), Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Bharti Fulmali, Georgia Wareham, Kanika Ahuja, Ayushi Soni, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwar, Renuka Singh Thakur, Titas Sadhu.
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UP Warriorz: Meg Lanning (c), Kiran Navgire, Harleen Deol, Phoebe Litchfield, Shweta Sehrawat, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Asha Sobhana, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud.
Why WPL 2026 Matters Now
With Mumbai's two titles and Bengaluru's one, plus Delhi's perennial finals heartbreak, this season tests new dynamics. The double header format amps up the action, mirroring IPL's intensity while spotlighting women's cricket growth in India. Viewers can catch live telecast on Star Sports or stream on JioCinema app—perfect for weekend bingeing.
Expert Take (Simulated from ESPNcricinfo Analyst): "Lanning's experience vs Gardner's flair makes this a captaincy masterclass. Watch for spin battles on DY Patil's pitch," says virtual pundit Ravi Shastri vibe.
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