Can Sophie Devine's Unbeaten Fifty Propel Gujarat Giants to Victory Against UP Warriorz?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter at the BCA Stadium, Sophie Devine's stellar performance led the Gujarat Giants to a competitive score of 153/8 against UP Warriorz. Her unbeaten fifty, coupled with key wickets from UPW bowlers, set the stage for an exciting match. Will the Giants defend their total successfully?
Key Takeaways
- Sophie Devine's performance set the tone for Gujarat Giants.
- Strong bowling from UP Warriorz kept the game competitive.
- Gujarat Giants crossed the 150-run mark in an exciting finish.
- Key wickets from UPW bowlers demonstrated their skill.
- The match showcased the growing intensity of women's cricket.
Vadodara, Jan 22 (NationPress) Sophie Devine's remarkable 42-ball half-century led the Gujarat Giants to a total of 153/8 against the UP Warriorz during Match 14 of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on Thursday.
Entering the match at number four, Devine smashed two fours and three sixes, pushing the Gujarat Giants past the crucial 150-run mark despite a disciplined bowling effort from the UP Warriorz, which had threatened to limit the home team's score. For UPW, Sophie Ecclestone and Kranti Gaud claimed two wickets each.
The Giants’ innings commenced with Beth Mooney and Danni Wyatt-Hodge, replacing leg-spinner Georgia Wareham, who combined for four boundaries before Kranti struck in her second over, bowling out Wyatt-Hodge with a delivery that hit the top of the off-stump.
Anushka Sharma quickly found the boundaries with a lofted shot down the ground, a straight drive, and an edge past third man. However, Kranti dismissed Anushka by having her caught behind for 14 runs. Ashleigh Gardner entered the game but faced challenges against both Kranti and Sophie.
Mooney, meanwhile, continued to cut and loft for boundaries as she approached her first fifty of the season. However, Deepti Sharma struck when Ashleigh attempted a pull shot but missed, leading to her dismissal for just five runs. Sophie also delivered a significant blow by catching Mooney out at mid-off for 38 runs.
Bharti Fulmali had a brief stint at the crease, getting run out following confusion with Sophie, while Kanika Ahuja was caught at mid-off off Chloe Tryon, and Kashvee Gautam was bowled by Ecclestone. After Renuka Singh Thakur was run out trying to complete a second run, Sophie Devine hammered consecutive sixes off Shikha Pandey to secure her fifty off 42 balls on the final delivery, ensuring Gujarat crossed the 150-run threshold with 16 runs scored in the last over.
Brief scores:
Gujarat Giants 153/8 in 20 overs (Sophie Devine 50 not out, Beth Mooney 38; Kranti Gaud 2-18, Sophie Ecclestone 2-22) against UP Warriorz.
Point of View
I underscore the significance of Sophie Devine's performance in this match. Her half-century not only showcases her talent but also highlights the growing competitiveness in women's cricket. The Gujarat Giants are making strides in the WPL, and this match could be pivotal in their campaign.
NationPress
23/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Sophie Devine's score in the match?
Sophie Devine scored an unbeaten 50 runs off 42 balls.
How many wickets did UP Warriorz bowlers take?
Kranti Gaud and Sophie Ecclestone both took two wickets each.
What was the final score of the Gujarat Giants?
The Gujarat Giants finished their innings with a score of 153/8.
Where was the match played?
The match was played at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
What is the significance of this match in WPL 2026?
This match is crucial for the Gujarat Giants as they aim to strengthen their position in the Women's Premier League.
