UP Warriorz Splash Rs 1.10 Crore to Secure Australian Captain Sophie Molineux
UP Warriorz secure Australian captain Sophie Molineux in a bidding war with RCB. Chief Scout Neetu David explains the strategy behind the big bid.
The UP Warriorz have made a massive statement ahead of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027, securing the services of Australian captain Sophie Molineux for a whopping Rs 1.10 crore. The signing came after a high-intensity bidding war during the mini-auction held in Kochi, where the Warriorz outlasted Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to bring the world-class all-rounder into their fold.
A Bidding War for the Australian Captain
The competition for Molineux was fierce, reflecting her status as one of the premier players in the T20 format. The bidding began at Rs 50 lakh, but the price skyrocketed as RCB, who had previously seen Molineux contribute to their 2024 title-winning campaign, fought to keep her. Within seconds, the bid climbed to Rs 95 lakh.
The tension peaked when UP Warriorz pushed the price to Rs 1 crore. RCB attempted a final counter-bid of Rs 1.05 crore, but the Warriorz closed the deal with a decisive bid of Rs 1.10 crore.
Why Molineux? Insights from Chief Scout Neetu David
Speaking to ANI after the auction, UP Warriorz Chief Scout Neetu David revealed that Molineux was a priority target for the franchise. David highlighted the player's technical prowess and her role as a leader on the world stage.
"She is currently leading Australia, and in T20s right now, they are number one. Quality-wise, she's a great bowler," David stated. "I have seen her bowl when we played India A against them and when our Indian senior team played them. She is wonderful, possesses great control, and definitely has leadership qualities as well."
David also noted that the franchise's financial position played a crucial role in the acquisition. With the largest remaining purse among the teams, the Warriorz had the flexibility to bid aggressively for the players they coveted most.
Strengthening the Core: Harris and Rana Join the Ranks
While Molineux was the headline acquisition, the UP Warriorz also focused on bolstering their all-round capabilities and death-over efficiency. The franchise successfully brought back Grace Harris for Rs 30 lakh. Harris, who has a long history with the franchise across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 seasons, had most recently been part of RCB's 2026 title win but was released to make room for Ellyse Perry.
Additionally, the team secured experienced Indian all-rounder Sneh Rana for her base price of Rs 30 lakh. Rana, who has previously represented the Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitals, and RCB, joined the Warriorz without any competing bids.
Building a Powerhouse Middle Order
Neetu David emphasized that the addition of Molineux, Harris, and Rana, alongside the presence of Sophie Ecclestone, creates a formidable spine for the team.
"Our middle order and lower-middle order have become very strong, which is what we wanted," David explained. She admitted that in previous years, the team struggled to capitalize effectively during the death overs, and these strategic signings are designed to fix that vulnerability.
Clear Vision Under Abhishek Nayar
The successful auction was not just a result of a heavy purse, but of meticulous planning and clear communication. David praised head coach Abhishek Nayar for his transparency and strategic clarity.
According to David, Nayar's ability to clearly define the team's needs—stating exactly what was required and how to work toward it—made the recruitment process run smoothly. With a strengthened lineup and a clear tactical roadmap, the UP Warriorz are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the upcoming season.