The UP Warriorz (UP-W) are gearing up to face off against the Gujarat Giants (GJ-W) on March 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST for the 15th match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. The match is set to take place at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, located in Lucknow, India. Given the importance of securing points, both teams find themselves under pressure to perform.
Currently, the UP Warriorz occupy the third spot on the points table with two wins and three losses out of five matches played. Their last outing was against the Mumbai Indians, where they faced defeat by eight wickets. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Giants are positioned fifth, sharing the same record as UP Warriorz but slightly lagging behind on net run rate. They won their last match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women by six wickets, which has boosted their confidence heading to this match.
UP Warriorz skipper Deepti Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl first, indicating her strategy for this must-win clash. The decision to field first can often put pressure on the batting lineup, especially on tracks where spinners can thrive.
Both teams have made notable adjustments since their previous meeting on February 16, where Gujarat claimed victory with ease. The circumstances are different now, as both UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants are tied with the Royal Challengers on four points, intensifying the stakes.
Each team has key players who are pivotal for their success. For UP Warriorz, Grace Harris stands out, boasting impressive form with 71 runs and six wickets across five matches. Although she hasn't found her rhythm with the bat yet, her bowling could sway the match. Deepti Sharma is another player to watch; her all-roundedness has seen her accumulate 88 runs and snag four wickets this season.
Chinelle Henry has also emerged as an exciting prospect for the Warriorz, showcasing her skill with both bat and ball, having scored 110 runs and taken two wickets. Her ability to change the game makes her a valuable pick for those investing in fantasy leagues.
Meanwhile, the Gujarat Giants look to captain Ashleigh Gardner, who has been stellar with 202 runs and six wickets this tournament. Her performances are near indispensable for the Giants, making her imperative for any fantasy team. Also significant is Deandra Dottin, who has provided solid contributions with 91 runs and five wickets, enhancing her all-rounder profile.
Another player worth considering from the Giants is Phoebe Litchfield, who, though she has only managed 30 runs from her two matches, has considerable potential to turn the game if she finds form.
The match is expected to be under pleasant weather conditions, with clear skies predicted. Temperatures are expected to hover around 19°C, making for comfortable playing conditions. The Ekana Cricket Stadium pitch has historically favored spin bowlers, likely leading to challenges for batters attempting to score freely. Hence, players specializing as spinners or all-rounders might be preferable choices for captain or vice-captain roles in fantasy leagues.
The record at the Ekana Cricket Stadium suggests teams batting first might have advantages, but with the dew factor kick-starting later stages of the game, chasing could become easier depending on how the ball behaves under lights.
For head-to-head matches, fantasy selectors may look to Deepti Sharma as captain and Deandra Dottin as her vice-captain, especially considering their recent reliable forms. For those participating in larger leagues, alternative options such as Phoebe Litchfield and Grace Harris could prove impactful based on their unique contributions.
Ahead of this gripping encounter, both teams will have one eye on the table dynamics, knowing each match can tip the balance as they vie for playoff spots. With expectations sky-high and both sides eager to clinch victory, this match promises to be thrilling.