Harmanpreet Kaur Expresses Surprise Over Harleen Deol's Retirement in Previous Match
Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur voiced her astonishment at UP Warriorz's decision to retire Harleen Deol during their last game. This came after Deol played a stunning innings to secure a victory for her team on Thursday.
Harleen Deol Bounces Back with Match-Winning Knock
Harleen Deol delivered a powerful performance for UP Warriorz in the Women's Premier League 2026. She scored a brilliant 64 runs to help her team defeat Mumbai Indians. This win marked UP Warriorz's first victory of the season.
The match took place at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on January 15, 2026. Deol's innings showcased her timing and skill, proving crucial in the chase.
Controversial Retirement in Previous Game
In the previous match against Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz made a surprising move. With Deol batting on 47 runs from 36 balls and three overs remaining, the team retired her out. They brought in South African player Chloe Tryon instead.
This decision did not yield the desired result. Delhi Capitals went on to win that game. The retirement sparked discussions among fans and experts alike.
Harmanpreet Kaur's Reaction
Harmanpreet Kaur, who captains both Mumbai Indians and the Indian women's cricket team, shared her thoughts. "Yeah, definitely. I think she's shown what, you know, why she's there in the side and what she can bring to the team," Kaur said.
She praised Deol's batting in the match against Mumbai Indians. "And I think today she batted beautifully and I think she's someone who always wanted to do well for her team," Kaur added.
The skipper expressed her surprise at the retirement decision. "Yeah, surprised to see she was retired in the last game, but I think she came up with very positive mindset and I hope she'll continue that," she concluded.
Harleen Deol's Perspective
Harleen Deol addressed the retirement incident after her match-winning performance. She stated that she did not dwell too much on the decision.
"Actually, yesterday also I was batting well but as you saw today, how Chloe can change the scenario. For me I just took it in that way. Chloe is someone who can hit big so probably that didn't go our way. That is the only thing which happened," Deol explained.
She emphasized her normal preparation and positive mindset. "Nothing. It's just normal preparation for me. Nothing different. I was batting well yesterday also. There's no point just keep stressing on that thing," Deol said.
Interestingly, the retirement gave her confidence. "Honestly yesterday it gave me a lot of confidence in fact, because first two game didn't go my way. But then I went on and figured out a few things, I was just trying to overhit, this wicket is not something which you know for me as a batter to just keep overhitting and just more on timing based things," she added.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Harleen Deol scored 64 runs to lead UP Warriorz to their first win of WPL 2026.
- The victory came against Mumbai Indians at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.
- Deol bounced back after being retired out in the previous match against Delhi Capitals.
- Harmanpreet Kaur expressed surprise at the retirement decision but praised Deol's performance.
- Deol maintained a positive attitude, focusing on timing rather than overhitting.
This match highlights the strategic decisions and player resilience in the Women's Premier League. Harleen Deol's response to adversity showcases her mental strength and commitment to the team.
