WPL 2024, Match 15 Review: Resilient Warriorz hold nerve to produce thrilling win in Delhi

The 15th encounter of the 2024 Women's Premier League unfolded at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, pitting UP Warriorz against Delhi Capitals. UP Warriorz exhibited remarkable resilience, clinching a crucial victory to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Batting first, UP Warriorz faced early setbacks, losing opener Kiran Navgire in the second over with only ten runs on the board. Despite the challenges, captain Alyssa Healy and Deepti Sharma built a sturdy 46-run partnership for the second wicket before Healy's dismissal for an unusual knock of 29 off 30 balls.

Deepti Sharma anchored the innings, playing a gritty 59 runs knock off 48 balls with six fours and one six. However, she found limited support from the other batters, with only three reaching double digits. UP Warriorz set a below-par total of 138 for eight in their allotted 20 overs, with Titas Sadhu and Radha Yadav standing out as Delhi's top bowlers, each claiming two wickets.

Chasing the target, Delhi Capitals began cautiously, guided by captain Meg Lanning's presence. By the end of the 16th over, the Capitals needed 28 runs from 24 balls, seemingly in control. The crucial wicket of Jemimah Rodrigues in the 18th over tilted the balance.

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The real game-changing moment occurred in Deepti Sharma's 19th over, where she secured three wickets, including a hat-trick, completely turning the tide. She also became the first Indian to pick up a WPL hat-trick. Despite requiring ten runs off the final over, Delhi Capitals fell short by one run, resulting in a shocking loss. Meg Lanning's pivotal 60 off 46 balls wasn't enough, as her dismissal triggered a collapse for the Capitals. Deepti Sharma emerged as the standout performer for UP Warriorz, claiming four wickets in a game-changing spell.

Going forward, the Delhi Capitals Women are set to take on RCB Women at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium on March 10th. Following that, on March 11th, the Gujarat Giants Women will clash with UP Warriorz Women at the same venue.