In a remarkable blend of sport and social purpose, UP Warriorz made headlines off the field as well as on it for their Women’s Premier League (WPL) clash against Mumbai Indians on January 17, 2026.
Instead of their traditional team colours, the Warriorz walked onto the DY Patil Stadium ground in striking pink jerseys to send a powerful message in support of girls’ education across India. This move was much more than a change of kit. It was a conscious effort by the franchise to highlight a critical social issue on a national sporting stage.
The decision to wear pink was part of a broader partnership with Educate Girls, a nonprofit organisation that works to improve access to education for girls who might otherwise be left out of formal schooling. Through this alliance, UP Warriorz chose to elevate the discussion around flexible and open schooling options that allow girls to continue their education despite social, economic, or personal challenges.
What made these jerseys truly special was their design and symbolism. Created in collaboration with artist Harun Robert, widely known as Rob, each jersey was adorned with handwritten notes from girls associated with Educate Girls. These letters, written by the girls to their future selves, expressed dreams, ambitions, and hopes. By incorporating these personal messages into the fabric of the kit, the Warriorz ensured that every run scored and every boundary struck carried with it the aspirations of young learners from across India.
Reflecting on the initiative, Jinisha Sharma, Director of Capri Sports, which owns the Warriorz franchise, said, “At UP Warriorz, we believe sport has the power to shape conversations that extend far beyond the game. This special match reflects our belief that education should adapt to life, not the other way around. Through our partnership with Educate Girls, we hope to normalise second chances in education and remind every girl that her learning journey does not have to end because life took a different turn.”
The jersey also served to spotlight open schooling, an education model that allows students to complete essential academic milestones without the need for full-time attendance. For many adolescent girls and young women who may shoulder family responsibilities or face other life events, this flexible schooling option can provide a vital second chance at education. The partnership with Educate Girls aims to normalise these opportunities and show that learning should be adaptable and accessible.
The timing of this initiative was significant. The Warriorz had recently struggled in the early stages of the WPL season but rebounded with a confident win over Mumbai Indians in their previous outing. Using the momentum from that victory, the team turned its focus to making an impact off the field as well. By dedicating this match to a cause as vital as girls’ education, the Warriorz spotlighted how sport can be a catalyst for meaningful societal change.
As the Women’s Premier League (WPL) continues to grow in popularity and influence, initiatives like this set an important precedent. They show that franchises can use their visibility not just to entertain, but also to inspire, educate, and advocate for issues that affect millions of lives. For the UP Warriorz, wearing pink was not just a fashion choice. It was a declaration of belief in opportunity, equality, and the transformative power of education.
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