UP Warriorz will take on Gujarat Giants. [Source - WPL/X.com]
UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants will be taking on each other in Match 15 of the Women's Premier League 2025 (WPL). The much awaited encounter will take place on Sunday, March 3 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
Deepti Sharma led UP are coming into this match on the back of a huge defeat against Mumbai Indians. They have played a total of five matches in the season so far, winning two and losing on other three occasions. As a result, they are currently placed third in the points table with two more league games to go.
On the other hand, Gujarat Giants have failed to perform consistently as they are currently placed at the bottom of the table. They have played five matches in the season so far, securing two wins and three losses, accumulating a total of four points with a negative net run rate (NRR) of -0.450.
Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices for UPW-W vs GG-W
The pitch at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow is generally on the slower side, assisting the spin bowlers as the game progresses. However, considering a fresh surface likely to be on offer, the fast bowlers are expected to get some early seam movement as well. Batters might find it difficult to play their shots freely, especially in the later stages of the game. The team winning the toss would most likely bowl first as chasing with a target in mind on this new surface might be the best thing to do under the lights.
3. Tahlia McGrath
Why Will Kiran Navgire Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Kiran Navgire has been one of the key batters for UP Warriorz this season. The explosive top-order batter has shown no mercy to opposition bowlers, especially against the new ball inside the powerplay.
In a total of five appearances this season, Navgire has amassed 108 runs at an average of 21.60 and at a mind-blowing strike-rate of 154.29. On her day she can dismantle any bowling line-up at any venue. Additionally, batting is most likely to be easier against the hard ball and that's why Navgire emerges as one of the top choices for the fantasy XI.
2. Sophie Ecclestone
Why Will Sophie Ecclestone Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Sophie Ecclestone will be another great choice to have as captain or vice-captain in your fantasy XI ahead of this game. The English all-rounder has been a consistent performer for UP Warriorz across three seasons.
On what happens to be a spin bowlers’ paradise in Lucknow, Ecclestone is expected to enjoy her time bowling at this venue. In addition, Ecclestone has an incredible record against Gujarat Giants as she has taken a total of 11 wickets at an average of 11.45 against them across five matches.
1. Ashleigh Gardner
Why Will Ashleigh Gardner Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Ashleigh Gardner was one of the reasons behind Gujarat Giants win over UP Warriorz earlier this season. The Aussie all-rounder picked up two wickets with the ball and scored a fantastic 52 off 32 to take Gujarat over the line.
Moreover, she should be one of the first names in your fantasy XI considering UP Warriorz’ low batting average against spin bowlers this season, especially right-arm off spinners against whom they are averaging 14.88 (worst among teams) with a total of 8 dismissals.