Why were the UP Warriorz eliminated from the WPL 2026 playoffs?

The UP Warriorz were eliminated from the WPL 2026 playoffs after losing their final league stage match against Delhi Capitals.

What impact did Phoebe Litchfield's absence have on the UP Warriorz?

Phoebe Litchfield's absence due to a quad injury disrupted the UP Warriorz's batting lineup, particularly at the No. 3 position, and affected their momentum.

Who qualified for the WPL 2026 playoffs alongside Delhi Capitals?

Gujarat Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have also qualified for the WPL 2026 playoffs.

Home / Sports / UP Warriorz Out: Litchfield's Absence Hurts WPL Dreams

UP Warriorz Out: Litchfield's Absence Hurts WPL Dreams

2 Feb

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Summary

Phoebe Litchfield's absence due to injury impacted UP Warriorz's batting lineup.
Delhi Capitals defeated UP Warriorz, eliminating them from WPL 2026 playoff contention.
UP Warriorz's top order struggled for consistency throughout the season.

UP Warriorz Out: Litchfield's Absence Hurts WPL Dreams

The UP Warriorz's hopes for the Women's Premier League 2026 title were dashed following a loss to Delhi Capitals on Sunday, consequently eliminating them from playoff contention. Coach Abhishek Nayar found it challenging to identify a single reason for the team's performance, but acknowledged that the absence of Phoebe Litchfield, due to a quad injury, significantly impacted their strategy. Litchfield, who scored 243 runs in six matches, was crucial to their batting lineup, particularly at the No. 3 position. The team struggled to replace her impact, and the top order's inconsistent form further hampered their season.

Delhi Capitals secured their spot in the eliminators with a five-wicket victory over UP Warriorz. This win also led to the elimination of the two-time champions, Mumbai Indians. UP Warriorz were restricted to 122/8 in their 20 overs, with Deepti Sharma, Simran Shaikh, and Shikha Pandey providing some late impetus. Delhi's bowlers, led by Marizanne Kapp's three wickets, contained UPW effectively. In response, Laura Wolvaardt's 47 and Jemimah Rodrigues's 26 guided Delhi to the target with 18.4 overs bowled, confirming UP Warriorz's exit from the WPL 2026 season.