In an exciting Women’s Premier League clash between Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, Sophie Ecclestone produced a moment of brilliance that quickly caught the attention of fans on social media. After being hit for a boundary by Gujarat skipper Ashleigh Gardner, the England spinner showed her class by dismissing the batter on the very next ball, turning the momentum in her team’s favour.
UP Warriorz opted to bowl first, but Gujarat Giants made a solid start with the bat. After an early contribution from Sophie Devine, Gardner joined Anushka Sharma in the middle, and the duo steadily rebuilt the innings. Their partnership flourished as they rotated the strike well and punished loose deliveries, helping Gujarat cross the 150-run mark around the 15th over.
Gardner, in particular, grew in confidence as her innings progressed. Though she began cautiously, she soon switched gears, striking multiple boundaries and clearing the ropes with ease. She reached her half-century with an attacking display that included several fours and sixes, putting the UP Warriorz bowlers under pressure.
During one over, Gardner appeared to have the upper hand against Ecclestone, slicing a full toss past the wicketkeeper for a boundary. However, the spinner responded immediately with a clever change in pace and length. Bowling slower and fuller, Ecclestone induced an edge from Gardner, and the ball crashed into the stumps, bringing an end to the dangerous innings.
— Usman mohammed (@Usmanmoham35703) January 10, 2026
The dismissal sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with fans praising Ecclestone’s composure and tactical awareness. Many highlighted how dismissing a set batter right after conceding a boundary is a hallmark of elite bowlers who thrive under pressure.
Although Gardner’s knock had already given Gujarat a strong platform, Ecclestone’s timely breakthrough stood out as one of the defining moments of the match. It once again underlined why she is considered among the best spinners in women’s cricket — capable of bouncing back instantly and outsmarting even the most powerful batters.