The Women’s Premier League 2026 has delivered yet another twist for the UP Warriors, who have announced that their prized Australian recruit Phoebe Litchfield is sidelined with a quadriceps injury. In her place, the franchise has roped in England wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones, injecting fresh hope into their faltering campaign.

Sitting dead last after six games—two wins, four losses—UP Warriors are on the brink of elimination. Playoff qualification hinges on sweeping their final two fixtures, a tall order without Litchfield’s dynamism. The young opener dazzled with 243 runs at a strike rate that terrorized bowlers, her two fifties anchoring key chases and setting aggressive platforms.

Acquired for 1.2 crore in the auction, Litchfield symbolized UP’s ambition. Her quad strain forces a premature exit, with the player heading home for recovery in time for international duties. This setback exacerbates the team’s woes, as their batting has crumbled under pressure throughout the season.

Enter Amy Jones, a seasoned campaigner with over 1,600 T20I runs and glovework pedigree from 125 internationals. WPL debutante or not, her pedigree suggests she can adapt quickly. Team management is banking on her experience to steady the ship and chase down those elusive wins.

With rivals strengthening and momentum against them, UP Warriors’ revival now rests on Jones’ shoulders. Will this replacement prove to be a masterstroke, or just another chapter in their disappointing season?