Deepti Sharma reflects on UP Warriorz's season-ending victory
What's the story
UP Warriorz ended their Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 season on a high, defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore by a thrilling 12 runs.
The match in Lucknow was highlighted by a brilliant knock from Georgia Voll, who scored 99* runs.
This win not only ended UPW's season on a high but also knocked out the defending champions RCB.
Despite the team's struggles this season, captain Deepti Sharma stressed on ending on a positive note.
Captain's perspective
'We wanted to end the tournament on a positive note'
"We wanted to end the tournament on a positive note," the UPW skipper said at the post-match press conference.
"It was good to see a nice crowd in. There was a lot of noise and often we couldn't hear each other properly on the ground. It was good to see them come out in numbers. We know we didn't start well in the tournament but we were keen to end it on a positive note," Deepti added.
Voll
Voll shines with two meaningful stands
In their last match, UPW's new opening pair of Voll and Grace Harris put on another explosive show.
Unlike their last game against Mumbai Indians where they fell quickly, this time Voll was determined to bat deep after Harris was run out.
Voll shared a 77-run stand alongside Harris for the opening wicket. She then added 71 runs alongside Kiran Navgire, who hammered 46 runs from 16 balls. Navgire smashed five sixes in the contest, striking at 287.50.
Tactical approach
Deepti Sharma's strategic insights
Deepti stated that a lot og things worked versus RCB as everyone stepped up.
"When the team wins, everything looks bright but when the team is losing, lot of things look wrong. We clicked well as a team today with everyone stepping up. That didn't quite happen in our previous game although we had the same team. Our middle order didn't quite click this season but today, we did well and batters took responsibility."
Key moment
Deepti's duel with Richa Ghosh
A turning point in the game was Deepti getting rid of an in-form RCB's Richa Ghosh.
"I have played a lot with her from the Bengal days and now with India," Deepti said about her national teammate.
"So I'm aware of her strengths and weaknesses, and she also knows the same. I just backed my strength and I knew that if I bowl to the field, there would be a big chance of getting her wicket."
Captaincy insights
Deepti's leadership outlook
Despite a difficult season, Deepti is hopeful of her captaincy. "I have enjoyed this opportunity given by the franchise to lead the side," she said.
"There is a good influx of talent in our group and that's pleasing to see."
She said she loves challenges and will learn from every match, win or lose.
Twitter Post
Points table
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