Former India captain Mithali Raj expressed disappointment with UP Warriorz’s batting display in their 45-run loss to Gujarat Giants in a WPL match at BCA Stadium. Raj described it as a batting collapse marked by panic, lack of partnerships, and poor shot selection. She particularly noted the underwhelming performance of experienced middle-order players like Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, and Shweta Sehrawat.
Sophie Devine’s adaptability and composed play were highlighted by Raj as crucial in Gujarat Giants’ victory. Despite being more accustomed to opening, Devine adjusted well to a middle-order role, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Raj praised Devine’s pivotal role with both bat and strategic impact on the game.
Raj also commended left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad for her standout performance, taking three key wickets and disrupting the Warriorz batting lineup. Gayakwad’s resilience and impactful return after injury and limited prior opportunities were acknowledged by Raj, emphasizing her crucial role in the match.
Former India batter Veda Krishnamurthy lauded Gujarat Giants’ collective bowling and fielding efforts, attributing their comprehensive win to a strong team performance. Krishnamurthy highlighted the team’s unity, exceptional fielding, and strategic field placements that restricted boundaries and led to consistent wicket-taking, ultimately outplaying the Warriorz.
Gujarat Giants’ victory has propelled them to the second position in the points table, enhancing their playoff prospects, while UP Warriorz find themselves at the bottom of the standings.
