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WPL 2026: Ayushi Soni first player to be retired out on debut as GG gamble backfires

Akshita Patel

Ayushi Soni snubbed unexpectedly [Source: @Shebas_10dulkar/X.com]Ayushi Soni snubbed unexpectedly [Source: @Shebas_10dulkar/X.com]

A rare moment unfolded in the WPL 2026 match between the Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants when Ayushi Soni was retired out on her debut. The 25-year-old returned to the pavilion after scoring 11 runs from 15 deliveries, thereby making her the first player in WPL to be retired out.

The move came in the 16th over as Gujarat looked to accelerate their scoring rate. Soni had started cautiously, trying to settle in and rotate the strike. 

However, with the innings losing momentum and Mumbai tightening the screws, the Gujarat management decided to bring in big-hitter Bharti Fulmali.

Ayushi Soni humiliated on WPL debut

It was a tactical call, but one that left many surprised, especially as it was Soni’s first appearance in the league. Before being retired out, Ayushi Soni struggled to find gaps. 

Mumbai’s bowlers kept things tight, giving her very little room. Amanjot Kaur and Amelia Kerr bowled disciplined lines. Gujarat were 137/5 after 16.1 overs when Soni walked off, with Georgia Wareham at the other end trying to hold things together.

Earlier in the innings, Kanika Ahuja played a quick knock of 35 off 18 balls, while Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner also chipped in. 

But regular wickets meant Gujarat could not fully capitalise on the strong start. The decision to retire Ayushi Soni was clearly made to inject fresh energy in the final overs.

Soni’s form is a big concern for Gujarat Giants

The situation is even more worrying for Gujarat Giants because Ayushi Soni was brought in as a replacement for injured Anushka Sharma. Anushka had been ruled out with a hand injury after impressing on debut, and Soni was given the chance to step in. 

Her early exit, even though tactical, adds to Gujarat’s growing list of concerns. For a team still trying to find balance in WPL 2026, these disruptions are far from ideal. 

The Giants need stability, not constant changes. The retired out decision may help in this one match, but long-term, Gujarat will hope both Anushka Sharma and Ayushi Soni are available and fit. 

Meanwhile, at the end of the first inning, GG finished with a strong total of 192 runs at the loss of five wickets.