Former India captain Anjum Chopra has identified UP Warriorz (UPW) as the frontrunners in the upcoming 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) in Navi Mumbai. Anjum highlighted the significance of on-field performance in determining the ultimate victor on February 5 in Vadodara.
Before the recent mega auction, UPW revamped their squad by releasing all players except Delhi batter Shweta Sehrawat. With Abhishek Nayar as the new head coach and Meg Lanning as the skipper, UPW boasts a formidable lineup including Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, and others, aiming to clinch their first WPL title.
Anjum emphasized the competitive balance among the teams in the league, acknowledging UP Warriorz as a standout side on paper. However, she noted that actual performance on the field against teams like Mumbai and Gujarat will be the true test of their strength and strategy.
The strategic squad overhaul has bolstered UPW’s prospects for the 2026 season compared to their struggles in 2025. By starting afresh and focusing on team unity, UPW aimed to address past shortcomings and build a well-rounded squad for the upcoming tournament.
Anjum highlighted UP Warriorz’s meticulous approach in the auction, particularly in strengthening their bowling unit with players like Sophie Ecclestone and Shikha Pandey. Despite concerns over wicketkeeping options following Alyssa’s departure, Anjum expressed confidence in UPW’s overall squad composition and strategy.
