Quick Read
- Delhi Capitals are playing Gujarat Giants in Match 17 of WPL 2026 on January 27, 2026.
- Minnu Mani is part of the Delhi Capitals’ playing XI for this crucial match.
- Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bowl first at BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
- Both teams have identical records of three wins and three losses in six matches, vying for the second spot.
VADODARA, INDIA (Azat TV) – The Delhi Capitals are currently battling the Gujarat Giants in a pivotal Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 encounter at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara today, January 27, 2026. With the coveted second spot in the league standings on the line, both teams entered the contest with identical records, making this Match 17 a crucial fixture. Delhi Capitals, featuring key all-rounder Minnu Mani in their playing XI, won the toss and elected to bowl first, signaling an aggressive approach to secure a playoff advantage.
A Critical Battle for Second Place
This evening’s clash holds significant weight for both Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants. Heading into Match 17, both franchises have registered three wins and three losses in their six games played so far in the WPL 2026 season. The Delhi Capitals, after a shaky start where they managed only one win in their first four matches, have showcased remarkable resilience, securing two consecutive victories that propelled them from the bottom of the table to third place. The Gujarat Giants, currently in fourth position, have also experienced a mixed tournament, and are eager to build winning momentum as the playoffs draw nearer. The winner of this encounter will solidify their claim for the second position, a crucial step towards securing a favorable spot in the knockout stages of the tournament.
Delhi Capitals’ Strategy and Playing XI
After winning the coin toss, Delhi Capitals’ captain Jemimah Rodrigues opted to field first, a decision that suggests confidence in their bowling attack and an intent to chase down a target on the Vadodara pitch. The Delhi Capitals’ lineup for this crucial fixture includes Shafali Verma, Lizelle Lee (wicketkeeper), Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues (captain), Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Chinelle Henry, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Shree Charani, and Nandni Sharma. Minnu Mani’s inclusion in the playing XI highlights her importance as a versatile player capable of contributing with both bat and ball for the Capitals.
On the other side, the Gujarat Giants Women’s team features Beth Mooney (wicketkeeper), Sophie Devine, Anushka Sharma, Ashleigh Gardner (captain), Georgia Wareham, Kanika Ahuja, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwer, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Rajeshwari Gayakwad. The presence of international stars on both sides promises a high-octane contest, captivating cricket enthusiasts across the globe.
The Road to the Playoffs
The Women’s Premier League, now in its second edition, continues to draw significant attention, showcasing top-tier talent from around the world. Matches like this one between the Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants are instrumental in shaping the playoff picture. With each team having played six matches, the remaining fixtures become increasingly vital for securing a spot in the top three and ultimately vying for the championship title. The performance in such high-pressure games often defines a team’s trajectory in the league, determining whether they can carry momentum into the decisive stages. The match is being telecast live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on the Jio Hotstar app and website, ensuring broad accessibility for fans.
The strategic decision by Delhi Capitals to bowl first in this high-stakes match underscores the increasing tactical depth within the WPL, as teams prioritize early pressure and assess pitch conditions for a run chase, a common tactic in modern T20 cricket.