Ayushi Soni Makes History as First Player Retired Out in WPL

In a groundbreaking moment for the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Ayushi Soni became the first player to be officially ‘retired out’ during a match. This historic event occurred on March 12, 2024, at the DY Patil Stadium during the Gujarat Giants’ innings against the Mumbai Indians. Soni, who entered the game at No. 6, struggled to make an impact, scoring a mere 11 runs off 14 balls without hitting a boundary.

After her disappointing performance, the Gujarat Giants opted to retire her out at the end of the 16th over, with the team’s score at 136 for 5. This marked only the second time a player has been retired out in women’s franchise T20 cricket, the first instance being Kathryn Bryce for Manchester Originals against Northern Superchargers in the Women’s Hundred.

Soni was making her WPL debut, having stepped in for Anushka Sharma, who was sidelined due to a minor injury sustained while fielding in a previous match against the Delhi Capitals. Following Soni’s departure, Bharti Fulmali came to the crease and made a significant impact, scoring an unbeaten 36 runs off just 15 balls, including three fours and three sixes.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision to retire Soni, Gujarat Giants’ head coach Michael Klinger stated that the team discussed the need to increase the scoring rate with both Soni and teammate Georgia. He indicated that they felt it was the right time to bring in Fulmali with just four overs remaining in the innings. Klinger acknowledged that the team aimed for a target of 180 to 190 runs while batting first.

Despite the Giants posting a total of 192 for 5, the Mumbai Indians successfully chased down the target with four balls to spare. Klinger, while acknowledging the outcome, maintained that the decision to retire Soni was a positive strategy. He praised Soni for her contributions during her debut, stating she helped establish a solid phase alongside Georgia.

The introduction of a retired out rule reflects the evolving strategies in women’s cricket, showcasing teams’ willingness to adapt in pursuit of victory. Soni’s historic retirement adds a noteworthy chapter to the WPL, signaling a progressive approach in the league’s gameplay and decision-making processes.