WPL 2026: This is why Danny Wyatt-Hodge is not playing today’s DC-W vs GG-W match

England batsman Danny Wyatt-Hodge There was one notable absentee in Match 17 when Gujarat Giants (GG-W) took on Delhi Capitals (DC-W). Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 On Tuesday (January 27) at BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara. The veteran opener’s omission raised curiosity among fans, especially considering his importance in the Gujarat Giants’ batting lineup.

Reason behind Danny Wyatt-Hodge’s absence

Gujarat Giants captain at the toss Ashley Gardner Wyatt-Hodge clarified the reason behind his absence, confirming that the England international was unavailable due to illness. The change was described as a forced decision rather than a strategic one.

“Dani Wyatt is out with illness,” Gardner said, adding that the team had to shuffle its batting order as a result. His comments helped end speculation about rotation or form-based exclusion.

Wyatt-Hodge was sidelined, Sophie Devine He was promoted back to the top of the batting order, a role he is well familiar with. Gardner stressed that Devine’s presence provides additional firepower, especially in the powerplay and middle overs.

“Having Sophie in the middle order gives us a lot of firepower… Sophie will go back to the top order,” Gardner said, highlighting the resiliency within the team. also saw changes Georgia Wareham Return to playing eleven.

Delhi Capitals decided to bowl first

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bowl, sticking to a strategy that has often suited their bowling-heavy lineup. led by captain jemima rodriguesDC fielded a strong XI with a mix of pace, power and all-round depth.

Their playing eleven included Shafali Verma, Lizelle Lee (wk), Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Nikki Prasad, Chinelle Henry, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Sri Charani and Nandini Sharma.

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Gujarat Giants playing eleven without Danny Wyatt

Despite the absence of Wyatt-Hodge, Gujarat Giants fielded a strong team. Along with Devine and Gardner, the XI included wicketkeepers Beth Mooney, Anushka Sharma, Georgia Wareham, Kanika Ahuja, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvi Gautam, Tanuja Kanwar, Renuka Singh Thakur and Rajeshwari Gaikwad.

The lineup reflected Gujarat’s confidence in the depth of their team and their ability to tolerate the loss of an overseas batsman without compromising their competitiveness.

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This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.