Gujarat Giants End Losing Streak with 45-Run Win Over UP Warriorz
Gujarat Giants finally found their rhythm in WPL 2026, ending a three-match losing streak with a commanding 45-run victory over UP Warriorz at Vadodara on January 22. The win propelled the Giants from the bottom of the table to second place, while the Warriorz slipped to last, leaving them in a must-win situation for their remaining two league matches.
Giants Batting Dominates
Electing to bat first, Gujarat posted 153/8 in 20 overs, powered by a brilliant half-century from Sophie Devine. The New Zealand all-rounder scored 50 off 42 balls, including three sixes and two fours, anchoring the innings amid regular wickets.
Beth Mooney added 38 from 34 deliveries, while Ashleigh Gardner, Anushka Sharma, and Danni Wyatt-Hodge provided quick cameos to maintain momentum. Kranti Gaud was the standout bowler for the Giants with figures of 4-0-18-2, and Sophie Ecclestone also impressed, conceding just 22 runs while taking two wickets.
Warriorz Batting Collapses
UP Warriorz’s chase never recovered. Kiran Navgire fell for a duck in the opening over, while Meg Lanning managed only 14 from 10 balls. Phoebe Litchfield (32 off 27) and Chloe Tryon (30 off 22) offered resistance, but the rest of the lineup crumbled.
The Giants’ bowling attack, led by Rajeshwari Gayakwad (4-0-16-3) and supported by Devine, Gardner, and Renuka Singh, restricted the Warriorz to 108 all out in 17.3 overs.
Implications for the Season
The loss deepens the Warriorz’s struggles, leaving them with a narrow path to playoff qualification. For the Giants, the win is a confidence booster, showcasing Devine’s finishing prowess and Gayakwad’s wicket-taking ability.
As WPL 2026 continues, Gujarat Giants will aim to maintain momentum, while UP Warriorz must regroup quickly or risk another disappointing campaign.
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