fourth edition of Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 All set to make a splash on 9th January, which will bring a month of explosive cricket to Mumbai and Vadodara. Following India’s historical one day world cup 2025 Following the win, the domestic league has reached fever pitch, with fans eager to see the world’s best talent return to Indian shores. This season featured an expanded schedule and a renewed focus on aggressive, results-oriented play. Of the five competing franchises, gujarat giants Has become the center of attention due to a series of high-profile staff and roster overhauls.
Gujarat Titans have brought in three-time World Cup winner as fielding coach for WPL 2026
In a historic move to strengthen their defence, the Giants have officially appointed the legendary England wicketkeeper-batsman and three-time World Cup winner. sarah taylor As their new fielding coach for WPL 2026. Taylor, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted cricketers in history, brings a wealth of tactical experience from both the women’s and men’s professional circuits.
Speaking to IANS on January 6, 2026, Taylor stressed on the culture of fearlessness and accuracy ahead of the start of the tournament. “The focus has been on preparing the girls for the first game on the 10th, while also ensuring they have fun and play with real aggression on the field. Matches can often be won or lost through moments of fielding, catches, run-outs and so on, so we want the girls to be fully prepared and ready for whatever comes their way.” Taylor said.
Taylor’s appointment is a clear statement of intent for the Adani-owned franchise, which has identified fielding lapses as the primary reason for its past struggles. By integrating Taylor into a coaching staff that also includes head coach Michael Klinger and bowling coach Praveen TambeThe Giants are counting on his ‘gold standard’ expertise to turn them into the fastest unit in the league.
Also read: Aakash Chopra predicts the winner and Orange Cap holder for the WPL 2026 edition
Road to salvation for veterans before WPL 2026
The giants will enter WPL 2026 with the weight of history on their shoulders and a desperate need for consistency. After finishing at the bottom of the points table in the first two seasons (2023 and 2024), the franchise finally tasted success in WPL 2025, achieving a historic feat by qualifying for the playoffs for the first time.
Under the strategic leadership of the Australian all-rounder Ashley Gardnerwho replaced beth mooney As captain last season, the Giants finished third with a balanced record of four wins and four losses. For the 2026 edition, the franchise has doubled down on this winning formula by retaining Gardner as captain for a hefty price of ₹3.5 crore.
The squad has been significantly strengthened by key signings including New Zealand icon Sophie Devine and swing expert of india Renuka Singh ThakurWith a revised roster of power-hitters such as Danny Wyatt-Hodge And like emerging Indian talent Kashvi Gautam And titas sadhuThe Giants are no longer the underdogs of the league. Gardner’s retention as the first overseas player to lead the team full-time signals a long-term approach to progressing beyond the eliminator and securing their first WPL title.
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
