Healy-less Warriorz eye top spot after poor show in 2024

UP Warriorz find themselves at a critical stage as they prepare for their third appearance in the Women's Premier League (WPL).

- Samreen Razzaqui

NEW DELHI: After a third-place finish in the inaugural season, they slid to fourth place last year in the five-team T20 franchise league.

The absence of skipper Alyssa Healy, who is the franchise's leading run-scorer with 428 runs in 17 outings, leaves big shoes to fill. However, in Deepti Sharma, the Warriorz may have found just the right leader.

The India all-rounder had a remarkable WPL 2024 season where she showcased her all-round prowess, scoring 295 runs at an average of 98.33 and taking 10 wickets bowling off-spin.

The Warriorz's spin department looks formidable yet again. With Australia's Ashes star Alana King joining forces with the world-class Sophie Ecclestone, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Gouher Sultana, it becomes stronger.

Pace attackTheir pace attack, which is not as intimidating as their spin contingent, is bolstered by the acquisition of West Indies seam-bowling all-rounder Chinelle Henry alongside Saima Thakor, Anjali Sarvani and Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath.