Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 kicks off January 9, marking the fourth edition of India‘s premier women’s T20 extravaganza. With five dynamic franchises ready to clash across vibrant venues, the tournament promises fierce competition, star-studded lineups, and electric fan energy from the opening ball. Captains from Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitals, and UP Warriorz set the tone at a lively pre-tournament meet, blending camaraderie with cheeky exchanges that lit up social media.
Meg Lanning’s cheeky sledge at Jemimah Rodrigues cracks up Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana
During a fun truth-or-dare segment at the WPL 2026 captains’ meet, UP Warriorz skipper Meg Lanning delivered a hilarious sledge aimed at Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues.
Prompted by the host, Lanning quipped, “So now you know how it feels like when fielders don’t listen to you and keep dancing on the field.” The remark harked back to their Delhi Capitals days, where Rodrigues’ infectious on-field energy often clashed with Lanning’s tactical instructions.
Laughter erupted instantly, with Mumbai Indians’ Harmanpreet Kaur and Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Smriti Mandhana pounding the table in stitches, their reactions amplifying the room’s joy.
The exchange highlighted the deep bonds forged among these stars despite franchise shifts. Lanning, who captained Delhi Capitals to three straight finals before her mega auction release, now leads UP Warriorz after their bold acquisition. Rodrigues, stepping into DC’s top job post-Lanning, praised her ex-skipper’s legacy of building a winning culture during a recent interview. With all five captains—Rodrigues, Lanning, Kaur, Mandhana, and Gujarat Giants’ skipper Ashleigh Gardener—around the table, the banter underscored WPL’s unique mix of rivalry and respect.
Here’s the video:
Meg was clearly a bit annoyed by Jemi dancing on the field during matches… lol🤣🤣🤣😅😅
Also the way harman reacted ..xd https://t.co/kIuqvs8Siy pic.twitter.com/Btn2nwbKZ7— Bonny 🎀💕 (@harryjeee) January 8, 2026
Also WATCH: Ellyse Perry shares emotional tribute to RCB ahead of WPL 2026 clash with Mumbai Indians
Lanning’s redemption quest after 3 title heartbreaks
Lanning enters WPL 2026 fueled by unfinished business, chasing her first title after three gut-wrenching final losses with Delhi Capitals since the league’s 2023 debut. The Australian legend, with five World Cup triumphs under her belt, transformed DC into perennial contenders but watched trophies slip away each time. Now at UP Warriorz, her appointment signals a fresh chapter, blending tactical nous with infectious leadership to end the drought.
Lanning’s hunger resonates amid the league’s evolution. Post-mega auction, teams retooled squads with Indian talents like Rodrigues and world-class picks, heightening stakes. Her sledge not only cracked up peers but signaled battle-ready vibes as WPL 2026 unfolds. Fans buzz with anticipation for on-field fireworks, where off-pitch laughs fuel on-pitch intensity.
Also READ: Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Squads: Players list and captains of all five teams
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
