The Women’s Premier League 2026 is going to kick off on January 9, and the excitement is already buzzing off the field. Ahead of the new season, players were seen sharing laughs, friendly banter, and relaxed moments to show the lighter side of the tournament.

During a recent pre-tournament show, UP Warriorz skipper Meg Lanning stole the spotlight with a playful moment involving the Delhi Capitals skipper, Jemimah Rodrigues. The clip immediately went viral, with people loving the lighthearted exchange between the two famous cricketers.

All five WPL team captains were present at the event, including Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur. Seated together, they took part in a casual chat with the hosts, setting a cheerful tone just days before the tournament begins.

Lanning’s fun sledge brings laughs before WPL 2026

During a truth-or-dare segment, Meg Lanning was dared to sledge Jemimah Rodrigues. The moment was extra special, as Rodrigues had previously played under Lanning when she captained Delhi Capitals in earlier WPL seasons.

Lanning, who was released by Delhi Capitals ahead of the WPL 2026 mega auction, was later picked by UP Warriorz and named their captain. She had spent three seasons with Delhi Capitals since the league began, making the exchange feel personal but friendly. Responding to the dare, Lanning said, “So now you know how your fielders feel when they don't listen to you and keep dancing on the field.” That comment brought loud laughter around the table, with Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana enjoying the moment the most.

Watch the video here

Meg was clearly a bit annoyed by Jemi dancing on the field during matches... lol🤣🤣🤣😅😅
Also the way harman reacted ..xd https://t.co/kIuqvs8Siy pic.twitter.com/Btn2nwbKZ7

— Bonny 🎀💕 (@harryjeee) January 8, 2026

See Also: WPL 2026, Match 1: MIW vs RCBW head-to-head, weather & pitch report, predicted playing XIs

Apart from that, The Mumbai Indians Women will start their title defense in the opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore Women on January 9 at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai, which promises an exciting start to WPL 2026.