Harleen Deol’s Blistering 64* Leads UP Warriorz to First WPL Win, Silencing Critics After Retired-Out Controversy
Navi Mumbai, January 16, 2026 – Just 24 hours after a controversial retired-out dismissal, Harleen Deol delivered a match-winning unbeaten 64 off 39 balls, guiding UP Warriorz to a seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians and securing their first win in Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. Deol’s knock, featuring 12 boundaries, anchored the chase of 162, supported by Chloe Tryon’s explosive 27* off 11 balls, finishing with 11 balls to spare.
Entering at No. 4 after early wickets, Deol formed a crucial 73-run stand with Phoebe Litchfield (25), flipping the script from her previous game’s tactical retirement on 47 against Delhi Capitals. “I was batting well yesterday too,” Deol said post-match, earning Player of the Match honors without dwelling on the decision by coach Abhishek Nayar. Mumbai posted 161/5, powered by Nat Sciver-Brunt’s 65 and Amanjot Kaur’s 38, but UPW’s bowlers, including Shikha Pandey (1-25) and Sophie Ecclestone (1-26), restricted them early.
Former cricketer Deep Dasgupta called Deol’s innings “a statement,” highlighting her resilience as UPW ended a three-loss streak under captain Meg Lanning. Mumbai suffered their second defeat in four games, with Sciver-Brunt taking 2-28.