Navi Mumbai, Jan 12 (NationPress) The Australian captain of Gujarat Giants, Ashleigh Gardner, emphasized the crucial role played by Indian players in the Women's Premier League (WPL) team, acknowledging the significant input from local talents during her team's thrilling four-run win over Delhi Capitals in Match 4 held at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday.

Despite Sophie Devine from New Zealand scoring an impressive 95 off 42 balls and Gardner contributing 49 runs off 26 balls, the Giants ended up at 209 all out in their allotted 20 overs after opting to bat first. Delhi Capitals' young bowler Nandani Sharma showcased her talent by taking her first five-wicket haul, which included a hat-trick in the final over as GG aimed for a higher score.

However, Lizelle Lee (85) and Laura Wolvaardt (77) brought Delhi Capitals very close to victory, needing just seven runs from the last over. Yet, Devine’s exceptional performance in the final over, where she conceded only two runs while dismissing Jemimah Rodrigues and Wolvaardt, ensured the Giants clinched the win.

In the post-match presentation, Gardner credited the Gujarat Giants' resilience to their Indian players, particularly the bowlers. "International players are pivotal in these competitions, but it's the Indian players who clinch victories. Our bowlers were outstanding, especially the two left-arm spinners. Anushka's remarkable save was also commendable," she noted.

She acknowledged that even a challenging target of 210 or needing 60 runs in four overs can feel attainable in India. "It was one of those matches that remained evenly poised throughout. In the past, you might have felt secure with 60 runs off 4 overs, but here in India, you're never truly out of contention. Being able to defend seven runs in the last over was a steal, which gives the team confidence," Gardner commented.

Gardner expressed that they aimed to bowl effectively as they felt 15 runs short of the required target. "We sensed we were 15 runs below par, which was disappointing. We knew their batting lineup was powerful. Although 200 is a great score, we needed to field and bowl exceptionally well. There were moments of excellence, but we have much to learn. Nevertheless, I’m pleased with our two wins," she added.

Despite losing two matches, Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues expressed pride in her team's performance during the close contest. "I’m extremely proud of how the girls fought back. Devine put us under considerable pressure, but Nandani and Charani bowled exceptionally well. It’s tough to take, but there are many positives to build on," she stated.

Jemimah noted the need for improvement in their power-play bowling, acknowledging that they allowed 80 runs in the first six overs. "We need to refine our power-play strategies. It’s challenging to bowl against someone in such good form as Devine. In situations like this, we always aim to finish on the winning side," she mentioned. "Maintaining a positive environment is key for DC. As long as we have belief, we can achieve anything. These two days off should help us return stronger."

She also praised young bowler Nandani Sharma, who recorded figures of 5-33, including a hat-trick in the last over, effectively halting the aggressive Gujarat Giants batters. "She has been one of our standout picks. A captain's dream, her accuracy is commendable, and she’s always ready for the challenge. I'm thrilled for her," Jemimah concluded.