Abhishek Nayar UP Warriorz head coach: Abhishek Nayar has been appointed as the head coach of UP Warriors ahead of WPL season 4 (2026). What he brings, team goals!
Abhishek Nayar Named UP Warriorz Head Coach Ahead of WPL Season 4
In a strong move before Women’s Premier League (WPL) Season 4, UP Warriorz have appointed Abhishek Nayar as their head coach. After parting ways with Jon Lewis, the franchise is banking on Nayar’s proven coaching skills and player development expertise to lift the team.
Why This Appointment Matters To Indian Women Cricket League
Experienced coach: Nayar served as assistant coach for the Indian men’s team under Gautam Gambhir and helped India win the Champions Trophy in early 2025.
Proven IPL success: He was part of KKR’s 2024 IPL‑winning campaign and worked closely with young stars like Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer and Rinku Singh.
Familiar with Warriorz: Nayar had helped UP Warriorz during off‑season training camps in Bengaluru in 2023, giving him insight into the team culture.
This appointment is seen as a fresh start for UP Warriorz, as they aim to push for their first-ever WPL title.
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Who Is Abhishek Nayar?
A former Mumbai all‑rounder who played three ODIs for India in 2009.
Began coaching after retiring in 2019; he coached the KKR academy in 2018, was KKR assistant coach, and Trinbago Knight Riders head coach in CPL 2022.
Known for working with top players – KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Dinesh Karthik and others credit him with improving their game.
UP Warriorz: The Road Ahead
UP Warriorz have made the playoffs once in 2023, followed by 4th place in 2024 and 5th place in 2025. Under Nayar, the team hopes to:
Build a winning culture.
Enhance player skill and team cohesion.
Maximally utilise domestic talent.
Challenge for the WPL trophy in Season 4.
Franchise leaders like COO Kshemal Waingankar and Capri Sports director Jinisha Sharma believe Nayar will bring fresh vision and consistency.
What Nayar Said;
In his official statement, Abhishek Nayar said:
“I really enjoyed my time working with the UP Warriorz before and I’m thrilled to take on this new role. WPL is a fantastic platform for women’s cricket… I believe we can build something truly special… I will give it my all to help win their first‑ever title this season.”
How This Could Change UP Warriorz’s Fortunes
- Sharper coaching strategy: Nayar is known for tactical planning and hands-on mentoring.
- Player development boost: Domestic stars and uncapped players may get a new table‑turning coach.
- Winning mindset: Backing from top management gives confidence, and Nayar’s past success helps build belief.
FAQs: Abhishek Nayar UP Warriorz head coach
Q1: Who is Abhishek Nayar and what’s his experience?
A: Abhishek Nayar is former India cricketer (Mumbai all‑rounder), played 3 ODIs in 2009. Since retirement, he built a coaching career: lead coach at KKR academy (2018), KKR assistant coach (IPL 2024 winner), India men’s assistant coach (Champions Trophy 2025), and now WPL coach.
Q2: Which WPL team did he join?
A: He joined UP Warriorz as head coach ahead of WPL Season 4 (2026).
Q3: Who was the previous head coach?
A: The previous coach was Jon Lewis, who led the team for the first three seasons before parting ways in June 2025.
Q4: Has Nayar worked with women’s teams before?
A: Not officially, but he was part of off‑season Warriorz training in Bengaluru after WPL 2023, giving him exposure to the squad.
Q5: What are UP Warriorz’s past season finishes?
A: Playoffs in 2023, then 4th in 2024 and 5th in 2025 among five teams.
Q6: Why is this coach change significant?
A: It signals a clear intent to rebuild and compete strongly using Nayar’s proven coaching skill and past IPL/championship success.
Final Thoughts: Abhishek Nayar UP Warriorz head coach
Abhishek Nayar’s appointment as UP Warriorz head coach is a smart, exciting move. With his record of success in the IPL and national team system, plus his earlier association with Warriorz – he brings both familiarity and fresh ideas. The team hopes to break their past finishes and go all the way in WPL Season 4. With strong leadership and managed talent, this could be the turning point for the franchise.
Keep an eye on UP Warriorz’s season preview, player signings, and coaching strategy ahead—they might just deliver the breakthrough season.
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