WPL 2024: Top Performances By Domestic Players In Week 2

WPL 2024: In its vision, the Women’s Premier League, spearheaded by the BCCI, was designed as a launching pad for burgeoning domestic talents to seize every opportunity and showcase their prowess on a global stage.

True to this ethos, Indian domestic players have transcended expectations, leaving an indelible mark from the outset and Week 1 and the Bengaluru leg of the WPL also gave a glimpse of that.

Now, as we delve into Week 2 of WPL 2024, let’s unveil the standout performers who continue to illuminate the league with their exceptional displays:

Meghna Singh- Gujarat Giants

Meghna Singh, despite being overlooked for the Indian national team recently, has found herself in the spotlight as a crucial asset for the struggling pace department of the Gujarat Giants in the WPL 2024. In a pivotal match against the Delhi Capitals, she showcased her prowess with a remarkable bowling spell, finishing with figures of 4/34.

What made her performance truly stand out was her ability to dismantle the top order of the formidable Delhi Capitals lineup.

Notably, she claimed the wickets of Meg Lanning, Shafali Verma, and Alice Capsey, key players who could single-handedly turn the tide of the game. Additionally, her dismissal of Radha Yadav further emphasized her impact on the match.

ALSO READ: WPL 2024: Gujarat Giants (GG) – SWOT Analysis

However, Meghna’s contribution didn’t end with the ball. Despite the Giants falling short in their pursuit of victory, she displayed her all-round abilities by chipping in with a valuable run-a-ball knock of 10, showcasing her versatility and determination.

Poonam Khemnar- UP Warriorz

Poonam Khemnar’s transition from RCB to UP Warriorz in WPL 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable, as she has seamlessly integrated herself into her new team and excelled in every opportunity that has come her way. Her innings of 31 runs from just 24 balls against her former team, Royal Challengers Bangalore, was a spectacle to behold.

What set Poonam apart in this innings was her fluid and flexible approach to batting. She displayed a wide array of shots, effortlessly manoeuvring the ball around the field with precision and timing. Whether it was finding the gaps for quick singles or unleashing powerful strokes to the boundary, she exhibited a mastery over her batting technique that was a delight for spectators to witness.

Despite the pressure of the chase, she remained composed and calculated, pacing her innings perfectly to ensure that her team reached the target with confidence. Her ability to assess the situation and adapt her game accordingly showcased her cricketing intelligence and maturity beyond her years.

Saima Thakor- UP Warriorz

Saima Thakor’s journey in the Women’s Premier League began with challenging starts, but she swiftly silenced any doubts about her presence on the centre stage. In a significant clash against the formidable Mumbai Indians, she showcased her mettle by claiming the prized wicket of skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, shattering her stumps and igniting celebrations that mirrored her passion and determination.

Thakor’s delivery to dismiss Kaur epitomized her skill and precision, affirming her ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs when her team needed them the most. Her spirited celebration underscored the significance of the moment, highlighting her commitment to making an impact in the league.

Building on this breakthrough performance, Thakor continued to shine in the subsequent match against the Delhi Capitals. Her spell of 2/30 was instrumental in restricting the opposition, with her dismissals of key players like Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues further solidifying her reputation as a potent force with the ball. Notably, Thakor’s battle with Verma showcased her competitive spirit and resilience, culminating in a fascinating duel that captivated spectators. Her send-off to Verma symbolized her fierce determination and the intensity she brings to every contest.

Saima Thakor’s performances against the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals underscored her emergence as a vital asset for her team in the Women’s Premier League. Her ability to rise to the occasion and deliver impactful contributions in pressure situations marks her as a player to watch in the league’s unfolding chapters.

Uma Chetry- UP Warriorz

What was interesting to see was UP Warriorz bringing in a youngster from the domestic circuit Uma Chetry in place of the injured Vrinda Dinesh. While Chetry got one game and was slotted in very low in the batting order, she impressed one and all with a boundary she got and the attacking game she possesses. Fans will keep their eyes peeled if the youngster gets another opportunity to play.

Shabnam Shakil – Gujarat Giants

Shabnam Shakil, however, broke the record of becoming the youngest ever to make a debut in WPL at the age of 16. She was impressive in her opening match vs RCB although she conceded runs, she was bowling tight lines and lengths to challenge the batters.

She got her first breakthrough when she dismissed Nat Sciver-Brunt in the encounter with Mumbai Indians. In whatever little we have seen of her in the WPL, she has been impressive and has a bright future ahead of her.

S Sajana- Mumbai Indians

Sajana has emerged as a revelation for the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League, captivating audiences not only during the inaugural week but also maintaining her momentum as a formidable finisher. Throughout Week 2, she showcased her mettle with impactful performances, cementing her reputation as a player to watch.

ALSO READ: WPL 2024: Mumbai Indians (MI) – SWOT Analysis

Her innings were marked by a blend of composure and aggression, as she played pivotal roles in key encounters. Against DC, her knock of 24 off 14 deliveries was instrumental in almost steering her team towards victory, demonstrating her ability to handle pressure situations with aplomb but they fell short by 29 runs.

Similarly, in the match against UP Warriorz, she once again proved her worth with a crucial contribution of 22 runs off 14 balls, further solidifying her position as a reliable finisher for the Mumbai Indians.

Sajana’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have undoubtedly made her a standout performer in Week 2 of the Women’s Premier League, earning her admiration and acclaim from fans and pundits alike.

Special mention to the India internationals and stars from the domestic cricket circuit- Radha Yadav, Saika Ishaque, Amanjot Kaur and Dayalan Hemalatha who performed well this week in WPL 2024 with consistency and grit!

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