Gujarat Giants (GG) claimed their first victory in the TATA Women’s Premier League 2025 with a six-wicket win over UP Warriorz (UPW) in Match 3 of the season. Captain Ashleigh Gardner, all-rounder Deandra Dottin, and leg spinner Priya Mishra were key to the victory.
Gardner Shines with Bat and Ball
Gardner led the chase with a brilliant 52 off 32 balls, her second consecutive half-century. She also contributed with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 39 runs. Meanwhile, Dottin played an important role, finishing with 33* off 18 balls and taking 2 wickets. However, it was Mishra’s outstanding bowling that turned the game in Gujarat's favor. The young legspinner took 3 wickets for 25 runs, dismissing Tahlia McGrath, Grace Harris, and Deepti Sharma.
Early Breakthroughs by Gujarat
Gujarat won the toss and opted to field first. They kept the same lineup as their previous match. Early on, Kiran Navgire scored 15 off 8 balls before Dottin trapped her in front. Gardner then made an impact in her first over, cleaning up Vrinda Dinesh. As a result, UPW found themselves at 22/2 after just 3 overs.
Mishra’s Key Moment for Gujarat
UPW continued to struggle as captain Deepti Sharma came in at 22/2. Alongside Uma Chetry, she added 51 runs. However, Dottin returned to strike, removing Chetry. Then, Priya Mishra stepped up. The young legspinner bowled out McGrath and Harris in consecutive deliveries, leaving UPW at 79/5 after 11 overs. Mishra further dismissed Sharma for 39, with a brilliant catch from Gardner. This remarkable spell of 3/25 put Gujarat in control.
Late Resistance from UPW
Despite being at 79/5, UPW fought back with late cameos. Alana King (19* off 14) and Saima Thakor (15* off 7) helped UPW reach 143/9 in 20 overs.
Gujarat Giants Start the Chase
In response, Gujarat’s chase started poorly. Harris struck early, dismissing Beth Mooney for a golden duck. Sophie Ecclestone also made an impact, getting Dayalan Hemalatha out. At 2/2, Gujarat needed a strong recovery. Gardner and Laura Wolvaardt responded by adding 55 runs, including three sixes in one over from Thakor. By the end of the powerplay, Gujarat was at 41/2.
Gardner and Dottin Lead the Charge
Ecclestone ended the 55-run partnership by dismissing Wolvaardt for 22. Gardner, however, continued her superb form, bringing up a half-century off just 30 balls. She was dismissed shortly after, leaving Gujarat at 86/4 with 58 runs to get from 8 overs.
Dottin and Deol Seal the Win
With the match still in balance, Dottin (33* off 18) and Harleen Deol (34* off 30) took charge. They combined for 58 runs in just 37 balls. Their partnership guided Gujarat to victory with two overs to spare, securing their first successful chase in WPL history.
