Grace Harris starred with the bat as UP Warriorz opened their Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2023 campaign with a three-wicket victory over Gujarat Giants at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday (March 5).

Chasing 170 to win, Warriorz were reeling at 86/4 in the 12th over when Harris arrived in the middle. Amid the pressure situation, she produced a stunning knock of 59 not out from 26 balls to take her team over the finishing line on the penultimate delivery.

“I started poorly and I thought I was fluffing around. You need to get the conditions of the wicket and I was thankful that Sophie also motored along. Great feeling to finish over the line. I knew what I wanted to do," Harris said after the match.

Grace Harris started her hitting in the 16th over of the chase when UP needed 70 off the last 5 overs. The match went down to the wire and it had everything in the final few overs – head-high no balls, excellent and poor fielding efforts, massive hits and DRS drama as well.

"I was getting antsy when there were so many breaks in the DRS. I was able to compose myself, but I was psyched to get the batting and score. I love batting with freedom. The coach is supportive and tells me to be free," Harris stated.

During the chase, Sophie Ecclestone also returned with a dazzling cameo of 12-ball 22*, hitting one four and a six.

"She (Ecclestone) is a clean striker, and that is a part of how well I played at the end. When Sophie got a couple away, I just ran hard. It was good," Harris said.

Grace Harris’ match-winning knock was studded with 7 fours and 3 sixes. She came up with a cheeky reply when asked about the secret of her incredible power hitting.

"There was a little bit of confusion towards the end, when the umpire walked over to say the DRS has gone down. It was a good bit of fun. Don't know where I'll find some burgers in India. Maybe some butter chicken," she concluded.

(India Today Inputs)