Sun Feb 16 18:12:14 UTC 2025: ## Gujarat Giants Clinch First WPL 2025 Victory Over UP Warriorz
**Vadodara, India –** Gujarat Giants secured their first win of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season with a convincing six-wicket victory over UP Warriorz in Vadodara on Sunday. Captain Ashleigh Gardner was the star performer, contributing both with the ball (2/39) and the bat (52 runs off 32 balls), her second consecutive fifty. Gardner was subsequently named Player of the Match.
Gujarat’s bowling attack was impressive throughout, restricting UP Warriorz to a modest 143/9. Young spinner Priya Mishra shone with figures of 3/25, while Deandra Dottin (2/34) and Kashvee Gautam (1/15) also provided crucial support.
Chasing 144 for victory, Gujarat got off to a steady start before Gardner’s powerful half-century propelled the team forward. Harleen Deol and Deandra Dottin also contributed significantly in the latter stages, ensuring a comfortable victory with two overs to spare.
Despite a dropped catch, UP Warriorz captain Deepti Sharma acknowledged that her team fell short of a competitive total and needs to improve its batting partnerships. She praised her spin bowlers, but admitted that the dew played a factor.
Gujarat captain Gardner expressed her delight with the win, emphasizing the team’s improved bowling performance compared to their opening match. She highlighted the contributions of Priya Mishra and the team’s overall strategy, acknowledging the experience brought by players like Laura Wolvaardt and Beth Mooney. Dottin echoed Gardner’s sentiments, highlighting the team’s execution and composure under pressure.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for Gujarat after their opening defeat and sets them up positively for the remainder of the tournament. The WPL action continues on February 17th with a clash between Delhi and Bengaluru.
First Piper 