The opening game of WPL 2026 delivered edge-of-the-seat drama, finishing on the last ball and setting expectations soaring. Up next, UP Warriorz Women square off against Gujarat Giants Women in the tournament’s second encounter.

The contest is scheduled for a 3:00 PM IST start at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, marking the season opener for both teams. Gujarat Giants Women, captained by Ashleigh Gardner, feature a strong core including Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Danielle Wyatt, Georgia Wareham and Renuka Thakur.

Meg Lanning takes charge of UPW-W, backed by a strong supporting cast featuring Phoebe Litchfield, Chloe Tryon, Harleen Deol and Deepti Sharma. On paper, this matchup promises fireworks between two squads packed with elite talent.

Pitch report

The pitch in Navi Mumbai promises good value for stroke play, though early overs could provide assistance for pacers. As the innings progresses and the ball softens, spinners should find some grip and turn. Winning the toss and opting to field could be advantageous.

UPW W vs GG W

UPW W vs GG W WPL head-to-head record

The head-to-head is evenly balanced, with both teams winning three matches each.

UPW W vs GG W probable top performers

Key batter to watch out for: Meg Lanning

Meg Lanning is one of the most experienced batters in the WPL and ranks among the league’s top run-scorers.Her knack for exploiting gaps and scoring freely during the powerplay makes her a formidable opener for the Uttar Pradesh franchise and a standout presence in this high-profile encounter.rong powerplay batting makes her the key player to watch in this match.

Key Bowler to Watch Out For: Renuka Singh Thakur

Renuka Singh Thakur is an effective new-ball bowler who frequently delivers early wickets. Beginning her stint with the Gujarat side this season, the right-arm seamer will aim to carry over her international form by maintaining consistent lines and building pressure.

UPW W vs GG W: probable XI

Gujarat Giants Women: Meg Lanning (c), Deepti Sharma, Deandra Dottin, Kiran Navgire, Phoebe Litchfield, Harleen Deol, Sophie Ecclestone, Chole Tyron, Shipra Giri (wk), Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud

UP Warriorz Women: Yastika Bhatia, Sophie Devine, Danielle Wyatt Hodge, Beth Mooney (wk), Kashvee Gautam, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ashleigh Gardner (c), Bharati Fulmali, Kanika Ahuja, Renuka Thakur, Titas Sadhu.

UPW W vs GG W Match Prediction

The two teams are evenly matched on paper, yet UPW-W hold a slight advantage due to their settled combination. They are backed to secure the win today.