By Victoria Hamilton 
Gujarat Giants (GG) opened their Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 account in style, clinching a six-wicket victory over UP Warriorz (UPW) in Match 3 of the season. A dominant all-round display from captain Ashleigh Gardner and Deandra Dottin, coupled with a match-winning bowling effort from young leg-spinner Priya Mishra, ensured GG’s maiden triumph in the tournament’s third edition.
Gardner, Dottin & Mishra Shine as GG Dominate
After winning the toss, Gardner opted to field first, backing her team to restrict UP Warriorz. The strategy paid off, as GG’s disciplined bowling unit kept the opposition to 143/9 in 20 overs.
The chase was anchored by Gardner’s explosive 52 off 32 balls, while Dottin’s unbeaten 33 off 18 provided the finishing touches. Harleen Deol’s composed 34 off 30 deliveries* further stabilized the innings, helping GG achieve their first-ever successful run-chase in WPL history.
UP Warriorz Stumble Despite Deepti Sharma’s Resistance
UP Warriorz had a shaky start as Kiran Navgire (15 off 8) was trapped lbw by Dottin. Skipper Deepti Sharma (39 off 27) tried to anchor the innings, forging a 51-run partnership with Uma Chetry (24 off 27).
However, GG’s young leg-spinner Priya Mishra turned the game on its head, dismissing Tahlia McGrath, Grace Harris, and Sharma in a mesmerizing spell of 3/25. Her efforts derailed UPW’s momentum, leaving them struggling at 79/5 by the 11th over.
A late flourish from Alana King (19 off 14) and Saima Thakor (15 off 7)** helped UPW cross the 140-mark, but it proved insufficient against GG’s formidable batting lineup.
Gardner and Dottin Take Charge of the Chase
Chasing 144, GG’s innings got off to a nightmarish start, losing Beth Mooney for a golden duck to Grace Harris. Things worsened when Sophie Ecclestone dismissed Dayalan Hemalatha, reducing GG to 2/2 in the first over.
Gardner and Laura Wolvaardt (22 off 20) then led the fightback, counter-attacking the UPW bowlers. Gardner’s blistering knock included three sixes in a single over off Thakor, propelling GG to 41/2 by the end of the powerplay.
Although Ecclestone dismissed Wolvaardt, Gardner continued her onslaught, racing to a 30-ball half-century. Just as GG seemed set for a comfortable finish, Gardner fell for 52, offering UPW a glimmer of hope.
Dottin and Deol Finish in Style
At 86/4 with 58 runs required from eight overs, GG needed a composed partnership. Dottin and Deol stepped up, blending aggression with calculated strokeplay.
Their unbeaten 58-run stand off just 37 balls sealed the deal for GG, with Dottin smashing boundaries at will. GG reached 144/4 in 18 overs, securing their first win of WPL 2025 with two overs to spare.
Key Performances:
Ashleigh Gardner: 52 (32) & 2/39
Deandra Dottin: 33* (18) & 2/34
Priya Mishra: 3/25 in 4 overs
Harleen Deol: 34* (30)
Sophie Ecclestone: 2/16
Brief Scores:
UP Warriorz: 143/9 in 20 overs (Deepti Sharma 39, Uma Chetry 24, Priya Mishra 3/25, Deandra Dottin 2/34, Ashleigh Gardner 2/39)
Gujarat Giants: 144/4 in 18 overs (Ashleigh Gardner 52, Harleen Deol 34*, Deandra Dottin 33*, Sophie Ecclestone 2/16)
Zainab Shafiq