Sneh Rana joins UP Warriorz for Rs 30 lakh at WPL 2027 auction, excited to play under Meg Lanning

A new team for the India all-rounder

UP Warriorz picked up Sneh Rana for Rs 30 lakh at the WPL 2027 auction held in Kochi on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. The 32-year-old off-spinning all-rounder spoke about the move on JioStar's auction special programme after her selection, thanking the franchise management for showing faith in her and saying she wants to give her best in her new colours.

Rana arrives at UP Warriorz with plenty of WPL experience behind her. She has previously captained Gujarat Giants, played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as a replacement player, and turned out for Delhi Capitals in WPL 2026, so the move to UP Warriorz is her latest stop in a league career that has already taken in three other franchises.

A spin-heavy attack and a new captain

The most eye-catching part of the move is the bowling combination it creates. Rana said she expects to bowl alongside India teammate Deepti Sharma and England left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, describing the unit as a very strong spin attack and noting that her long familiarity with Deepti from their time playing together for India should help communication on the field.

Rana also spoke warmly about the prospect of playing under Meg Lanning, the former Australia captain who will lead UP Warriorz in the coming season. She said she has always watched Lanning on television and is eager to experience her leadership at close quarters, including the tactical changes she makes during matches.

Sushma Verma also returns via UP Warriorz

Rana was not the only experienced Indian player to join UP Warriorz at the auction. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma was also picked by the franchise, again for her base price of Rs 30 lakh, and thanked UP Warriorz for placing their trust in her.

Sushma last played T20 internationals for India a decade ago and was with Gujarat Giants in 2023. She said she had attended UP Warriorz trials before the auction, and spoke about staying hopeful through recent auctions in which a place in a squad had eluded her, adding that the eventual opportunity felt like a reward for sustained hard work.

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