NEW DELHI: Former Australian captain Meg Lanning was on Sunday appointed skipper of UP Warriorz ahead of the Women’s Premier League, which begins on January 9.

The Australian great had previously captained Delhi Capitals in the first three seasons of the tournament, guiding them to three consecutive finals but ending up runners-up on each occasion.

“The Capri Sports-owned UP Warriorz announced the appointment of Australian legend Meg Lanning as captain of the franchise ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season,” the franchise said in an official statement.

UP Warriorz secured Lanning’s services for ₹1.9 crore during the auction.

A seven-time World Cup winner with Australia, Lanning boasts an illustrious résumé that includes two ODI World Cup triumphs and five T20 World Cup titles.

“As the UP Warriorz enters a new phase of their journey, Lanning’s appointment underscores the franchise’s focus on experience and composure at the leadership level,” the statement further read.

The franchise has made several changes ahead of the upcoming season after finishing third in the inaugural 2023 edition, slipping to fourth in 2024 and ending fifth in the 2025 season.

“As the WPL enters its fourth season, it’s been incredible to see how the league has evolved, the quality of cricket, the competitiveness, and the emergence of exciting new talent continue to raise the standard each year,” Lanning said.

“This is a talented group with a strong mix of international experience and Indian players, and I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead,” she added.

Former India cricketer and current UP Warriorz head coach Abhishek Nayar praised the appointment, saying, “Meg brings a rare combination of experience, clarity, and calmness that sets her apart as a leader.”

The Women’s Premier League will be staged in two phases this year, with the opening leg scheduled in Navi Mumbai from January 9 to 17, followed by the second leg in Vadodara from January 19 to February 5.

(With PTI Inputs)