Follow UsAbhishek Nayar, who earlier this year was sacked as the assistant coach of the Indian Men’s Team, has been appointed the new head coach of Women’s Premier League (WPL) side UP Warriorz for WPL 2026.
Nayar succeeds England’s Jon Lewis, who was let go after a disappointing 2025 season in which the Warriorz finished bottom, winning just three of their eight matches.
"Bringing Abhishek Nayar on board as head coach feels like a natural and exciting step forward for UP Warriorz," Kshemal Waingankar, COO and director of cricket UPW, told ESPNcricinfo.
"When someone of Abhishek's calibre became available, it was a no-brainer. Few in Indian cricket bring the same depth of experience when it comes to shaping players and shaping winning cultures.
"In just the past 18 months alone, Abhishek has been part of three championship-winning campaigns, each in a different role, each leaving a lasting impact. We are thrilled to have him lead a Warriorz side that's united, fearless and hungry to grow. With Abhishek at the helm, we believe this group can do something truly special."
Nayar was roped in by India as assistant coach last year after a successful IPL 2024 as a part of KKR’s support staff, but he was let go in April. He then immediately rejoined KKR’s coaching staff, assisting the franchise in IPL 2025.
Nayar is expected to now coach both UPW and KKR come the 2026 editions of the respective competitions.
Across both WPL 2024 & WPL 2025, the Warriorz failed to make it to the playoffs after showing signs of flair in the first season.