Massive blow to Gujarat Giants as star player ruled out of WPL 2024, Vidarbha batter roped in as replacement

Gujarat Giants' Harleen Deol has been ruled out of the remainder of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2024 due to a knee injury. Bharti Fulmali from Vidarbha has been brought in as her replacement and participated in the team's warm-up before their Delhi leg opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore on Wednesday (March 6).

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Harleen Deol sustained injury during WPL clash against UP Warriorz

During the first over of the Giants' third league match against UP Warriorz in Bengaluru, Deol aggravated an existing injury to her left knee and had to leave the field shortly after. Since that incident, she has not returned to play and was observed on the sidelines during the Giants' game against RCB, not in team attire.

Concerns over vice-captain Sneh Rana's match fitness have also troubled the Gujarat Giants, as she missed two back-to-back matches due to an undisclosed illness. It has been learnt that Rana has made a good recovery and is slated for selection in the upcoming match against the Mumbai Indians on Saturday (March 9).

Gujarat Giants marred by injury woes

The Giants have encountered a tough season with injuries, affecting their bowling lineup significantly. This includes the loss of their INR 2 crore signee, fast bowler Kashvee Gautam. Australian player Lauren Cheatle withdrew from the WPL 2024 following skin cancer removal surgery. New Zealand pacer Lea Tahuhu and Mumbai's Sayali Sathgare were signed as replacements for Cheatle and Gautam, respectively.

Despite a difficult beginning to the season with four straight defeats, a venue change brought newfound success for Beth Mooney's team. They set a daunting 200-run target against RCB and achieved their first win of the season by 19 runs. However, they still occupy the bottom position in the league standings.

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