UP Warriorz Strengthen Squad with Key Signings Ahead of WPL 2027

The UP Warriorz made a bold statement at the WPL 2027 Player Auction by securing Sophie Molineux for Rs 1.10 crore, the highest bid of the event. Alongside her, the team added seven other players, including Grace Harris and Sneh Rana, to strengthen their roster. With a solid core retained from the previous season, the Warriorz aim to build a versatile squad capable of competing for the title. Head coach Abhishek Nayar emphasized the strategic approach taken during the auction to enhance team flexibility and depth. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the combination of international stars and experienced Indian players positions the Warriorz as strong contenders in WPL 2027.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 29, 2026, 00:05 IST

UP Warriorz Make Bold Moves in WPL 2027 Auction

Kochi (Keralam) [India], October 28: The UP Warriorz made a significant impact at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2027 Player Auction held in Kochi, acquiring Australian cricketer Sophie Molineux for a record Rs 1.10 crore, marking her as the highest-priced player of the event. The team also welcomed seven other players, including Grace Harris, Sneh Rana, and Asha Sobhana, enhancing their roster with a mix of international expertise and Indian talent as they aim for a strong title challenge in WPL 2027.

Prior to the auction, the Warriorz retained a solid foundation of 10 players, featuring notable names like Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma, former Australia captain Meg Lanning, England spinner Sophie Ecclestone, and Australian batter Phoebe Litchfield. With this core intact, the franchise sought to bolster their squad's depth and versatility, ultimately finalizing an 18-member team with eight new acquisitions.

In addition to Molineux, the Warriorz secured Australian all-rounder Grace Harris for Rs 30 lakh, Indian all-rounder Sneh Rana for Rs 30 lakh, and bowler Asha Sobhana for Rs 30 lakh. Wicketkeeper Sushma Verma also joined the team for Rs 30 lakh. Furthermore, they added Scotland all-rounder Kathryn Bryce, Indian all-rounder Sahana Pawar, and all-rounder Manali Dakshini for Rs 10 lakh each.

Molineux's inclusion is a pivotal enhancement for the Warriorz, as the Australian left-arm spinner brings valuable international experience and all-round skills to the squad. Harris adds strength to the batting lineup and all-round capabilities, while Rana and Sobhana contribute to the bowling strength. The addition of Sushma Verma provides further experience behind the stumps.

Head coach Abhishek Nayar expressed that the franchise entered the auction with a clear strategy to identify players who could enhance the existing team and offer greater flexibility across various roles.

“We had a specific vision for the squad we wanted to create. Securing Sophie Molineux was crucial for us, and we are thrilled to have her on board. Together with Grace Harris, Sneh Rana, and our other new signings, we have gained significant quality and versatility. We aimed for players who could adapt to different scenarios and complement our established core. We are pleased with the team we have assembled and are eager to unite everyone ahead of the season,” stated Abhishek Nayar.

The Warriorz also focused on enhancing their Indian player representation, with the additions of Sneh Rana, Asha Sobhana, Sushma Verma, Sahana Pawar, and Manali Dakshini enriching the squad's depth. This blend of seasoned domestic players and international talent provides the team with various options to tailor their strategies for different match situations.

Kshemal Waingankar, COO & Director of Cricket at Capri Sports, emphasized the significance of the new signings, particularly the added spin options and flexibility they introduce to the team.

“The addition of Sophie Molineux significantly boosts our spin attack and positions us well to explore various combinations. Grace Harris injects power into the middle order, while Sophie brings leadership qualities, exceptional bowling skills, and a strong presence within the team. We believe that the duo of Sophie Molineux and Sophie Ecclestone could form a formidable partnership, while Grace allows us to adjust our strategies based on conditions and match scenarios,” remarked Kshemal Waingankar.

With eight new players secured during the auction, the UP Warriorz are now set to integrate their squad ahead of the forthcoming WPL season. By combining established international stars with experienced Indian players and all-round capabilities, the Warriorz aim to create a cohesive unit ready to contend for the title in WPL 2027.

UP Warriorz full squad for WPL 2027: Deepti Sharma, Shikha Pandey, Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Molineux, Sophie Ecclestone, Harleen Deol, Kranti Gaud, Pratika Rawal, Grace Harris, Sneh Rana, Asha Sobhana, Sushma Verma, Kathryn Bryce, Manali Dakshini, Shipra Giri, Sahana Pawar, and Simran Shaikh.