BLR-W vs UP-W Fantasy Preview: High-Scoring Thriller at DY Patil

The Women's Premier League 2026 is delivering high octane action, and the upcoming clash between Bangalore Women (BLR-W) and UP Women (UP-W) promises to be a run fest. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, and with the match scheduled at the batting friendly DY Patil Sports Academy, fantasy managers should prepare for a contest dominated by top order batters and death over specialists.

Match Details

• Match: BLR-W vs UP-W, WPL 2026
• Venue: Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai
• Date & Time: 12 Jan 2026, 7:30 PM IST

Weather and Pitch Report

Navi Mumbai is expected to have clear skies with temperatures hovering around 26°C during match hours. The humidity levels will be moderate, but since this is an evening game, the dew factor could play a significant role in the second innings, making chasing slightly easier.

The pitch at DY Patil is an absolute paradise for batters. The average score in the last 5 matches here is a massive 174 runs. While pacers have picked up 35 wickets compared to 25 by spinners, the ball comes onto the bat nicely. Expect a high scoring encounter where bowlers who can vary their pace will be crucial.

Team Analysis: Bangalore Women (BLR-W)

Bangalore is coming off a solid win against Mumbai, where they chased down 154. The standout performer was undoubtedly Nadine de Klerk. She is currently the most valuable asset in this lineup, having scored 63 runs and picked up 4 wickets in the last game alone. Her all round ability makes her a default Captaincy choice for many.

Smriti Mandhana looked in touch with a quick 18 but will be looking to convert that into a big score. Richa Ghosh remains a key figure in the middle order and behind the stumps. On the bowling front, Lauren Bell and Shreyanka Patil are the ones to watch, though the surface might be tough for spinners.

Team Analysis: UP Women (UP-W)

UP Women lost a high scoring thriller against Gujarat in their last outing despite scoring 197 runs. Their batting unit is firing on all cylinders. Phoebe Litchfield was spectacular, smashing 78 runs, while Meg Lanning provided a solid start with 30 runs.

Sophie Ecclestone continues to be a world class operator, picking up 2 wickets even in a game where runs flowed freely. Deandra Dottin offers great balance with her medium pace and hard hitting ability. However, Deepti Sharma will be eager to bounce back after a quiet game.

Key Players to Watch

• Nadine de Klerk: She is in the form of her life. With 257 fantasy points in the series already, she covers both batting and bowling departments effectively.
• Phoebe Litchfield: The left hander is striking the ball clean and hard. Her 78 in the last game proves she enjoys these batting friendly surfaces.
• Sophie Ecclestone: Regardless of the pitch, she finds a way to take wickets. She also chipped in with 11 runs recently.
• Smriti Mandhana: The Bangalore skipper is due for a big knock, and DY Patil is the perfect venue for her style of play.
• Deandra Dottin: A true impact player who contributes in every aspect of the game.

Captaincy and Vice Captaincy Picks

Small League Captain: Nadine de Klerk

Grand League Captain: Phoebe Litchfield

Vice Captain Options: Sophie Ecclestone, Smriti Mandhana

Strategy for Mega Leagues

Given the average score of 174, stacking your team with top order batters is a smart move. Avoid filling your team with too many finger spinners unless they bowl in the death overs. Focus on all rounders like De Klerk and Dottin who stay in the game throughout both innings. Since the venue favors chasing due to dew, check the toss update before finalizing your team.