As the Women’s Premier League (WPL) enters a new cycle, the Capri Sports-owned UP Warriorz are taking bold strides toward a fresh chapter.
Under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Abhishek Nayar, the franchise has opted for a major overhaul ahead of the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, signaling a shift in direction and long-term strategy. In one of the most significant resets of the off-season, the Warriorz have retained only Shweta Sehrawat from the uncapped Indian players category a move that underlines the franchise’s intent to rebuild from the ground up. With a renewed focus on youth, balance, and strategic clarity, UP Warriorz are setting their sights on creating a sustainable, competitive core that aligns with their vision for the future.
The arrival of Abhishek Nayar as head coach marks a historic moment he becomes the first Indian head coach in the WPL, bringing with him years of experience in player development, mentorship, and tactical innovation. Known for his work behind the scenes in shaping India’s next generation of cricketers, Nayar’s appointment represents more than just a coaching change; it reflects the franchise’s shift toward a more holistic approach to team-building.
“The UP Warriorz have had some tremendous players over the past seasons,” said Nayar. “But as we enter a new cycle in the WPL, it’s essential to make a fresh start. This doesn’t close the doors on any of our former players returning rather, it’s an opportunity to reimagine how we want to build the squad. We are confident that the WPL Mega Auction will give us the platform to restructure the team in a way that truly benefits the UP Warriorz.”
Nayar emphasized that the rebuild will be driven by a focus on adaptability, role clarity, and consistency three pillars that define successful T20 teams globally.
Strategic Vision for Season 4
The UP Warriorz, one of the founding franchises of the WPL, have been a crowd favorite since the tournament’s inception in 2023. Known for their attacking cricket and a mix of flair and unpredictability, the team reached the playoffs in the inaugural season, but struggled for consistency in subsequent years. With the WPL now evolving into a more competitive and tactical league, the franchise’s leadership recognized the need for a long-term reset. The upcoming mega auction the first of its kind in the WPL provides an ideal opportunity for the Warriorz to craft a side that mirrors their philosophy: competitive, composed, and fearless.
The team will head into the auction with four Right to Match (RTM) cards, which allow them to retain players from their 2025 roster if needed. This gives the franchise significant flexibility, especially in securing key performers while exploring new combinations across departments.
Kshemal Waingankar, COO of UP Warriorz, called the moment a turning point for the team’s identity and ambitions.
“This decision marks a fresh beginning for us as we prepare for the new season,” said Waingankar. “The size of our purse and the Right to Match mechanism give us strategic flexibility. It also gives Abhishek (Nayar) the freedom to build the right balance of youth and experience, ensuring we have a combination capable of competing for the title.”
He added that the decision to rebuild was a collective and calculated move, keeping the future of the team at the forefront. “This is not about starting over; it’s about building smarter creating a team that reflects our values and has the hunger to perform consistently.”
Shweta Sehrawat: The Core of the Future
Among the notable retentions, Shweta Sehrawat stands out as a symbol of the Warriorz’s future-focused approach. The 20-year-old batter, known for her elegant stroke play and calm temperament, has been one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket. Sehrawat’s retention demonstrates the team’s intent to invest in young domestic players capable of long-term growth within the franchise setup. “Shweta has the right mix of potential and composure. She represents the next generation of Indian cricket, and we want to build a system that allows her and others like her to flourish,” a team official said.
A Rebuild Grounded in Purpose
The Warriorz’s new direction comes at a crucial time when every franchise is reevaluating its identity ahead of the WPL’s next cycle. While some have chosen to consolidate around experienced cores, UP Warriorz’s decision to embrace change reflects a bold and forward-looking mindset. With a strong purse, four RTMs, and a leadership team that values both data and intuition, UP Warriorz are poised to be one of the most active and intriguing teams at the WPL 2026 Mega Auction.
As Nayar summed it up:
“We’re not just building a squad for one season we’re laying the foundation for the next five. The idea is to create a culture that values growth, adaptability, and collective success. The UP Warriorz will come back stronger, and we’re ready for this new beginning.”
About UP Warriorz
The UP Warriorz, owned by Capri Sports, are one of the five founding franchises of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Known for their competitive spirit and strong support base, the team represents Uttar Pradesh and has been an integral part of the league’s journey since 2023. With a renewed focus on development, structure, and success, the Warriorz aim to be at the forefront of the next phase of women’s cricket in India.
