Harleen Deol’s explosive knock overshadowed Delhi Capitals (DC) captain Meg Lanning’s brilliant half-century as Gujarat Giants (GG) clinched a five-wicket victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on Friday. The win strengthens GG’s chances for direct qualification to the final.
With this victory, Gujarat Giants moved to second place on the points table with four wins and three losses, totaling eight points. DC remains at the top with 10 points from five wins and three losses. However, GG still has a chance to surpass DC and secure a direct spot in the final.
Match Summary
Delhi Capitals Innings:
After being put to bat first, DC made a strong start with an 83-run opening stand between skipper Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma (40 off 27 balls, 3 fours, 3 sixes) in just nine overs. Meghna Singh (3/35) provided the breakthrough by dismissing Shafali, while Jess Jonassen (9) partnered Lanning to take DC past the 100-run mark in 11.5 overs.
Despite regular wickets by Meghna and Deandra Dottin (2/37), Lanning kept the scoreboard ticking. She reached her half-century in 35 balls with eight fours and a six. Lanning’s spectacular knock ended on the penultimate ball of the innings, scoring 92 off just 40 balls (15 fours, 1 six). DC posted a competitive total of 177/5 in 20 overs.
Gujarat Giants Run-Chase:
GG’s chase started with an early setback as Dayalan Hemalatha (1) was dismissed by Shikha Pandey (2/31). However, an 85-run stand between Beth Mooney (44 off 35 balls, 6 fours) and Harleen Deol brought Gujarat back into the contest. Quickfire cameos from Ashleigh Gardner (22 off 13 balls, 1 four, 2 sixes) and Deandra Dottin (24 off 10 balls, 2 fours, 2 sixes) further accelerated the chase, helping GG cross the 100-run mark in 12.5 overs and the 150-run mark in 17.5 overs.
Even though Jess Jonassen (2/38) tried to fight back for DC, Harleen continued her dominance. She reached her half-century in 38 balls and finished unbeaten on 70 off 49 balls (9 fours, 1 six), guiding GG to victory with five wickets in hand and three balls to spare.
Impact on the Points Table:
- Delhi Capitals: Finished their league stage at the top with 10 points.
- Gujarat Giants: Climbed to second place with eight points and one match remaining, with a chance to claim the top spot and secure direct entry into the final.
Harleen Deol’s match-winning innings proved to be the difference, overshadowing Lanning’s masterclass. Gujarat Giants now stand one step closer to securing a place in the WPL final.