UP Warriorz Gears Up for WPL 2027 Auction in Kochi
UP Warriorz Ready for WPL 2027 Auction
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction is scheduled for October 28 in Kochi, and the UP Warriorz are entering this player selection phase with a solid foundation and a clear vision for their remaining squad positions, as stated in a recent press release.
Retained Players and Team Composition
The Warriorz have confirmed the retention of 11 players, blending international expertise, experienced Indian athletes, and emerging young talent. The overseas contingent includes former Australia captain Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, England's Sophie Ecclestone, and USA's Tara Norris. The Indian roster is led by Deepti Sharma, alongside Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, and Shikha Pandey. Additionally, young talents Kranti Gaud, Shipra Giri, and Simran Shaikh complete the retained lineup.
Strategic Focus for the Auction
With a strong core established, the team is now concentrating on filling seven available slots, including two for international players. The Warriorz aim to prioritize players who can fulfill specific roles within the team structure rather than simply pursuing high-profile names. Head Coach Abhishek Nayar emphasized the importance of balance and flexibility, stating, "We have a solid group, and the players are familiar with our goals. We seek individuals who can enhance our existing lineup and adapt to various match situations."
Commitment to Indian Talent Development
Nayar also highlighted the franchise's commitment to nurturing Indian talent, noting that there are eager players in the auction pool ready to meet the challenges of the league. "Identifying the right talent and providing them with the necessary platform is beneficial for both the team and their growth," he remarked.
Kshemal Waingankar, COO & Director of Cricket at Capri Sports, reiterated that the auction strategy aligns with their retention philosophy. "We have a clear vision for the team we want to build, and the auction is an extension of that. Our focus is on adding the right components to our established core, ensuring we remain disciplined in our approach to avoid decisions that do not align with our squad's needs. Our goal is to create a consistently performing team while fostering an environment for Indian talent to thrive at the highest level," Waingankar stated.
WPL 2027 Auction Goals
The Warriorz are set to enter the WPL 2027 auction with the aim of finalizing a well-rounded squad that complements their established core, gearing up for another competitive season.
Retained Squad for WPL 2027
The retained players for the UP Warriorz ahead of the WPL 2027 auction include: Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Ecclestone, Deepti Sharma, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Shipra Giri, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud, Simran Shaikh, and Tara Norris.