Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz, WPL 2026, match 2: Preview, when and where to watch in India?
The fourth season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) moves into high gear today as the Gujarat Giants take on the UP Warriorz at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy.
Last Updated: 08.56 PM, Jan 09, 2026
The fourth season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) moves into high gear today as the Gujarat Giants take on the UP Warriorz at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. This Match 2 encounter is more than just an opening fixture for these two sides; it marks the beginning of a new era for both franchises following a high-stakes mega auction that reshaped their rosters.
For the Gujarat Giants, the mission is simple: consistency. After reaching the Eliminator in 2025 but falling short of the final, they are desperate to shed their "mercurial" tag. Meanwhile, the UP Warriorz enter the tournament under the leadership of a modern legend, aiming to translate tactical discipline into their first-ever WPL title.
Match details
Match: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz, WPL 2026, match 2
Dates: Saturday, January 10, 2026.
Venue: 3 PM IST
Read Also: Analysis | Which WPL team packs more strength? Squad analysis of every WPL team before WPL 2026
Where can I watch the Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz, WPL 2026, match 2 online?
Cricket fans in India can watch the Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz, WPL 2026, match 2 on JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium.
Head-to-head stats
While the overall record is tied at 3-3, the momentum sits with Gujarat, who have won the last three consecutive meetings between the two sides, including a dominant 81-run victory in late 2025.
Preview
The biggest storyline heading into today’s clash is the leadership change. Ashleigh Gardner has been officially handed the reins for the Gujarat Giants. The Australian superstar, a perennial match-winner with both bat and ball, will be looking to instill the "Aussie winning mentality" into a squad that has often struggled under pressure.
Across the field, the UP Warriorz have pulled off a masterstroke by appointing Meg Lanning as their captain. Lanning, who led Delhi Capitals to three consecutive finals, brings unparalleled experience and a calm head to a Warriorz side that has historically relied on individual brilliance from the likes of Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone.
Team News
Gujarat Giants
The Giants have bolstered their bowling attack significantly by signing Indian pace sensation Renuka Singh Thakur for ₹60 lakh. Her ability to swing the ball early in the powerplay will be vital at the DY Patil Stadium. The top order remains explosive with Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine expected to open.
UP Warriorz
The Warriorz used their Right to Match (RTM) cards aggressively to retain their core. Deepti Sharma, the most expensive player in the 2026 auction (₹3.20 crore), remains the heartbeat of the team. The inclusion of Harleen Deol from the Giants adds much-needed depth to their middle order.