Navi Mumbai, Jan 15 (NationPress) Gujarat Giants (GG) all-rounder Sophie Devine has credited her remarkable achievement of hitting Delhi Capitals (DC) off-spinner Sneh Rana for 32 runs in the 2026 WPL to advantageous match-ups and a straightforward approach.

During the thrilling WPL 2026 encounter at the DY Patil Stadium, which GG narrowly won, Sophie struck Sneh for two fours and four sixes, setting a record for the most expensive over in WPL history. Interestingly, Sophie had previously scored 32 runs in an over off Sneh back in a T20I match in Bengaluru in 2015.

"No, not at all. I think we've discussed match-ups and our best targets as a team. For me, off-spin was certainly a favorable match-up. The way we initiated the innings by being aggressive wasn't part of a pre-planned strategy. It was more about taking the opportunity as it presented itself.

"The key is that when I'm in good form, there's minimal overthinking involved. I focus on each ball as it comes. The over went for a lot of runs, but my objective was to keep things uncomplicated," Sophie explained.

"Off-spin is a better match-up for me compared to Beth, especially being a left-hander with the ball turning away. There's no hidden trick; it was simply a favorable match-up that worked well that day," she added while responding to a question from IANS during a virtual roundtable with the franchise on Thursday.

Devine's influence extended beyond her explosive 95 runs off 42 balls. She bowled the final over when DC needed just seven runs and took two crucial wickets, clinching a thrilling victory for GG.

"You must always believe that you can defend any total. I felt the pressure wasn't on us; I thought DC had the edge with their chase. They needed to score runs, so I focused on keeping it simple—attacking the stumps and adjusting my pace, which gave us a chance," she remarked.

"A full toss on the first ball wasn't my intended delivery; I aimed for a yorker. Nevertheless, these competitions are fantastic for pressure situations. Collaborating with Ash and having clear plans helped us navigate the final moments. Ultimately, while planning is essential, execution is crucial.

"I was fortunate to execute my plans that day. In the previous match, I couldn't do it, emphasizing how cricket can be humbling. It was an exhilarating game for us, though it would have been nice to finish it sooner, and I hope everyone enjoyed the spectacle," she elaborated on her mindset during that critical final over.

Despite narrowly missing the WPL's first century for the second time in the competition, Sophie remained focused on team success rather than personal achievements.

"For me, milestones are secondary to ensuring the team is in a winning position. There's no sense in slowing down for personal statistics; the priority is to do what's best for the team in that moment," she explained.

Sophie, who has accumulated 141 runs and taken five wickets in GG's first three matches, praised various Indian players for stepping up as match-winners in the ongoing tournament.

"Franchise cricket is amazing for the global game. Overseas players enjoy coming to experience the WPL, the conditions, and the unique challenges here. However, the contributions of domestic players are just as significant.

"In any franchise, it's local players who can truly be game-changers. Overseas players often neutralize each other, while it’s the domestic players who can deliver match-winning performances. Anushka's brilliant fielding moment was a key turning point for us.

"The role of local players is gigantic. Over the years, the standard of domestic players has improved significantly, and they have the most to gain from playing alongside international players," she stated.

Sophie specifically highlighted young leg-spinner Kashvee Gautam and pace spearhead Renuka Singh Thakur for their valuable contributions. "Watching players like Kashvee learn to execute under pressure and develop with each game is thrilling. These competitions provide valuable exposure to high-pressure situations.

"Renuka is exceptional. She brings immense control and clarity with the new ball and during pressure overs. Having her lead the attack instills confidence in the entire bowling unit. She is composed, understands her strategies well, and has been a tremendous asset for us."