How Does Retaining Deepti, Sophie, Kiran, and Kranti Ensure Continuity for UPW?
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Synopsis
In an exciting move post the 2026 WPL auction, UP Warriorz coach Abhishek Nayar emphasizes the retention of key players, ensuring stability in their core team. With new star signings, the squad looks poised for a successful season ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Retaining core players is crucial for team stability.
- Strategic signings can enhance team performance.
- Experience and youth create a balanced squad.
- Understanding pressure situations is vital for success.
- A strong management strategy is essential for achieving goals.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) UP Warriorz (UPW) head coach Abhishek Nayar emphasized the significance of stability following the 2026 WPL auction. He highlighted that the retention of Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Kiran Navgire, and Kranti Gaud through the Right to Match (RTM) card has guaranteed continuity in the core of their setup.
In addition to retaining these four players, UPW made headlines during the inaugural WPL mega auction by securing former Australia captain Meg Lanning for INR 1.90 crore, along with emerging Australian talent Phoebe Litchfield and West Indies powerhouse Deandra Dottin.
“This auction has provided us with precisely the kind of squad we aimed to create. Retaining Deepti, Sophie, Kiran, and Kranti ensures continuity in our core. Additionally, adding leaders like Meg, vibrant young talents such as Phoebe and Pratika, along with seasoned match-winners like Harleen, Shikha, and Deandra gives us a balanced team across all departments,” he stated.
“These athletes comprehend pressure, perform in crucial moments, and embody the competitive and fearless style of cricket that we aspire for UP Warriorz,” Nayar remarked in a franchise statement on Friday.
UPW further bolstered their lineup by acquiring Indian players Harleen Deol and Pratika Rawal, who teamed up with Kranti during the recent ODI World Cup victory. They also added experienced fast bowler Shikha Pandey, who emerged as the third most expensive buy in the auction, along with leg-spinner Asha Sobhana and USA pacer Tara Norris.
“We are very excited to welcome back some of our key players ‒ Deepti, Kranti, Kiran, and Sophie. While it’s tough to see some others join different franchises, we have created wonderful memories with this group over the years, and their contributions have been immense,” he said.
“It’s regrettable, but we are delighted to have a talent like Meg Lanning on our team. With multiple T20 and ODI World Cups under her belt, she is an outstanding leader. We also look forward to working with the young and promising Phoebe Litchfield and having Deandra Dottin in the lineup,” he added.
“Most importantly, we are pleased with the Indian players we’ve brought in, like Shikha Pandey, Asha Sobhana, and other emerging talents. The setup appears to be really strong, and we eagerly anticipate the start of the season,” remarked Kshemal Waingankar, COO of UPW.
Point of View
It is evident that UP Warriorz's strategy of retaining core players while adding new talent indicates a calculated approach towards team stability and competitiveness in the WPL. This blend of experienced and youthful players could significantly influence their performance in the upcoming season.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the retention of key players mean for UP Warriorz?
Retaining key players like Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone ensures continuity in the team's performance and strategy, fostering a stable environment for success.
Who are the notable signings for UP Warriorz this season?
This season, UP Warriorz notably signed Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, and Deandra Dottin, further strengthening their squad.
How does the addition of new players affect team dynamics?
Adding players like Meg Lanning and young talents can enhance the team's dynamics by introducing leadership and fresh energy, which is vital for performance.
