A spectacular, unbeaten 64-run blitz from Harleen Deol propelled the UP Warriorz to their first victory of the WPL 2026 season, as they defeated the Mumbai Indians by six wickets with ten balls to spare at the DY Patil Stadium on Thursday. The win, secured after three consecutive losses, was built on a disciplined chase anchored by Deol’s match-winning innings.
Chasing a competitive 156 for victory, the Warriorz innings was perfectly paced. Meg Lanning (29) and Kiran Navgire (15) provided a steady start, but the innings truly ignited when Harleen Deol walked in. The all-rounder played with authority and intelligence, mixing powerful drives with clever placement to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Deol found a perfect partner in Phoebe Litchfield (25), with the pair adding a crucial 69-run stand for the third wicket. Just as the partnership was flourishing, Natalie Sciver-Brunt (2/26) struck twice in an over to remove both set batters, briefly reigniting Mumbai’s hopes.
However, the Warriorz had the depth and firepower to close it out. Chloe Tryon joined Deol and provided the finishing flourish. The South African all-rounder smashed 26* off just 15 balls, including a towering six off the penultimate ball of the match to seal the deal, fittingly bringing up the winning runs alongside the composed Deol.
Earlier, the Mumbai Indians had posted 155/8 in their 20 overs, a total built on starts but lacking a defining, big knock. Their bowlers, led by Sciver-Brunt, fought hard but were ultimately unable to contain Deol’s masterclass on a batting-friendly surface.
For the UP Warriorz, this was a morale-boosting victory that showcased their batting depth and resilience. Harleen Deol, deservedly awarded Player of the Match, proved to be the game-changer, playing an innings of maturity and power that finally got her team’s campaign off the mark.
