WPL: Ecclestone, Harris lead UP Warriorz to a comfortable victory

In the eighth match of the 2024 Women’s Premier League, UP Warriorz Women faced off against Gujarat Giants Women at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

UP Warriorz won the toss and opted to field first. Batting first, Gujarat Giants had a decent start as their openers Laura Wolvaardt and captain Beth Mooney forged a 40-run partnership. After Mooney’s dismissal, Harleen Deol struggled, scoring 18 off 24 balls.

Subsequently, Phoebe Litchfield and Ashleigh Gardner formed a strong partnership, contributing 35 and 30 runs, respectively, enabling their team to reach a respectable total of 142 in their allotted 20 overs. Sophie Ecclestone was the standout bowler for UP, taking three wickets in her four-over spell.

In pursuit of the modest total, UP openers Kiran Navgire and captain Alyssa Healy dominated the chase during the first power play, scoring 42 runs in 4.3 overs. Captain Healy, in particular, showcased excellent form, accumulating 33 off just 21.

Entering the crease at number four, Grace Harris stole the show with a brilliant 60 off 33 balls, featuring nine fours and two massive sixes, showcasing her power and finesse in batting. Deepti Sharma also played a supporting role with her 17 off 14 balls, contributing to UP’s comfortable victory by six wickets in the end. For Gujarat, Tanuja Kanwar was the pick of the bowler with two wickets to her name.

Top Performers of the Match

Grace Harris (60 of 33)

Known for her power, Grace Harris maintained her exceptional form in the event, delivering another brilliant performance by scoring 60 off just 30 balls, featuring nine fours and two sixes. Her dominant batting made the game decidedly one-sided, securing a convincing victory for her side. Watching her showcase both power and class was truly a treat for the spectators.

Sophie Ecclestone (3/20, 4 overs)

The ever-reliable star left-arm bowler from England, Sophie Ecclestone, maintained her excellent form and demonstrated her skills. She delivered a brilliant four-over spell, claiming three crucial wickets while conceding only 20 runs. Her capability to stem the run flow and pick up pivotal wickets at crucial moments stood out as the real highlight of the match.

What next?

Royal Challengers Bangalore Women will face UP Warriorz on March 4 at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, while Gujarat Women are scheduled to play DC at the same venue on March 3