After two wins and three losses, including one at home in Vadodara, Adani Sportsline-owned Gujarat Giants are set to go all out in their final three matches of the WPL 2026, as they aim for a playoff spot at Kotambi Stadium.
Focus on Home Advantage
Addressing the media, players and coaches from the team highlighted the importance of returning to Kotambi Stadium and playing in front of their home supporters.
Head Coach Michael Klinger remarked, “Our initial strategy was to find the right combination, especially for our playing XI. We’ve spoken to the group about the brand of cricket we want to play and the targets we aim to achieve, both in Mumbai and now in Vadodara. I felt we played some really good cricket in our first couple of games with two solid wins, but in the last three matches we’ve fallen a little off the pace and haven’t played quite at our best. With three matches still to go, we remain very much in the competition. We will have to tweak our strategy slightly, especially with the playing conditions being different here.”
Captain’s Confidence
Captain Ashleigh Gardner echoed the belief within the group, stating, “We’ve played some good cricket and some not-so-good cricket, but it’s important to trust your preparation as individuals and as a team. We’re focused on building an environment where everyone is gelling well. For us, it’s about sticking to our processes and hopefully putting on stronger performances for our home crowd in these last three games.”
Adapting to Conditions
Senior pacer Renuka Singh discussed the need to adapt to the conditions in Vadodara. “The wicket here has been slightly different, with different soil and a bit less bounce. As bowlers, we need to adjust quickly to the conditions, and it’s great to be playing in front of our home crowd.”
Debutant Insights
Young debutant Anushka Sharma, who is having a promising season, shared her experience: “It’s been special so far. I’ve been given a clear role and the opportunity to bat in my natural position at one down, which has helped my confidence. Every day has been a new learning experience for me.”
Upcoming Fixture
Gujarat Giants will face UP Warriorz in their next WPL 2026 fixture at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, in a few days.