UP Warriorz concluded their season on a high note, securing a 12-run victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore after being eliminated from the tournament. This win also resulted in the defending champions being knocked out. The Lucknow match was a high-scoring affair, with UP Warriorz setting a new WPL record for the highest total, thanks to Georgia Voll’s impressive 99 runs. Despite a strong effort from RCB, the target proved too challenging.
While this strong batting performance came late in the season for the Warriorz, captain Deepti Sharma emphasized the importance of ending the season positively after a challenging run.
At the post-match press conference, Deepti stated, “We wanted to finish the tournament with a positive result.”
She also noted the enthusiastic crowd, saying, “It was great to see such a large and energetic crowd. The atmosphere was fantastic, even if it was a bit loud on the field. We are aware that our tournament start wasn’t ideal, but we were determined to conclude it on a positive note.”
The opening partnership of Voll and Grace Harris once again proved explosive, mirroring their performance in the previous game against Mumbai Indians. However, unlike the MI game where the team faltered after the opening stand, Voll anchored the innings this time, especially after Harris’s run-out. The middle order also provided crucial support to Voll.
Batting collapses have been a recurring issue for UP Warriorz this season, with the MI match being a prime example. Deepti reflected philosophically on the difference between the two games.
“When the team wins, everything seems positive, but when losing, many things appear to go wrong. Today, we performed well as a team with everyone contributing. Although it was the same team as the previous match, our middle order stepped up today and the batters took responsibility.”
A key moment in the game was the dismissal of Richa Ghosh, who was playing aggressively, reminiscent of her performance in the tournament opener. Ghosh had scored 69 runs off 32 balls before Deepti dismissed her. Deepti explained her strategy against her Indian teammate.
“Having played with Richa for a long time, both for Bengal and India, I understand her strengths and weaknesses, and she knows mine too. I focused on my strengths and trusted my plan to bowl to the field, which worked in getting her wicket.”
Despite a season that didn’t meet expectations in terms of overall results, Deepti remained optimistic. As a senior player and captaincy option alongside Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana, she seemed unfazed by the season’s outcomes.
“I appreciated the opportunity to captain the team given by the franchise. Leading the team presents different challenges compared to playing as just a player. It requires constant alertness and strategic thinking on the field. I learned a lot about these aspects during the WPL and see room for growth. The team has a promising pool of talent, which is encouraging.”
“I embrace challenges. Every day is different for a player or captain. In every match, win or lose, I seek to learn. I didn’t feel any added pressure, as I’ve always enjoyed challenges. I’ve gained valuable experience this season, and I anticipate further improvement next season.”
