Post by : Badri Ariffin

Nandani Sharma, the promising young pacer for Delhi Capitals, made history on Sunday by becoming the inaugural Indian fast bowler to achieve a hat-trick in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The 24-year-old showcased her skill during a match against Gujarat Giants in Navi Mumbai, delivering an impressive performance despite her team’s heartbreaking loss.

With extraordinary figures of 5 for 33, Nandani produced one of the standout bowling displays of the season. This remarkable achievement places her alongside notable WPL bowlers like Issy Wong, Grace Harris, and Deepti Sharma, who have also secured hat-tricks.

The game-changing moment occurred in the final over of Gujarat’s innings, where Nandani’s bowling blitz claimed the wickets of Kanika Ahuja, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, and Renuka Singh consecutively, igniting celebrations within the Delhi Capitals camp.

Meet Nandani Sharma

Born in 2001 in Chandigarh, Nandani Sharma has proven herself as a rising pace bowler within India’s domestic scene. Having represented Chandigarh in various domestic tournaments, she has caught the eye of selectors with her consistent performances for the North Zone Women.

Her talents were rewarded when Delhi Capitals secured her for Rs 20 lakh during the WPL 2026 auction, a groundbreaking decision that has already paid dividends.

Nandani’s Reflections Post-Match

Commenting after the match, Nandani credited her captain Jemimah Rodrigues and opener Shafali Verma for their unwavering support and encouragement during key moments.

“I focused on bowling to my target. Shafali and Jemimah kept talking to me before each delivery, and the plan was straightforward—attack the stumps. I didn’t foresee the hat-trick, but my teammates believed in me,” she shared.

She also highlighted a crucial adjustment she made mid-match.

“After my first over, I noticed the batters were reading my stock delivery well, so I opted to utilize my variations. Thankfully, that worked. My brother, mother, and a close friend were present at the ground, while the rest of my family tuned in from home. Their encouragement means the world to me.”

Despite Heroics, Delhi Capitals Fall Short

Although Nandani’s extraordinary efforts dazzled, Delhi Capitals ultimately fell short. Gujarat Giants secured a thrilling four-run victory, led by a brilliant 95 from Sophie Devine and an impressive final over.

This victory signified Gujarat Giants’ second successive win, while Delhi Capitals mourned their second defeat of the season. Nevertheless, the night belonged to Nandani Sharma, whose performance firmly established her in the realm of women's cricket.

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