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Nandani Sharma Creates Major WPL History With Hat-Trick
12 Jan 2026, 8:06 pm

Nandani Sharma etched her name into the record books by becoming the first Indian pacer to take a hat-trick in the Women’s Premier League. The historic moment came during the WPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants in Navi Mumbai, marking a significant milestone in the tournament’s growing legacy.
Early Life and Domestic Rise of Nandani Sharma
Born in 2001, Nandani Sharma hails from Chandigarh and has steadily risen through the ranks of Indian domestic cricket. Known for her pace and control, she represented Chandigarh in domestic T20 competitions and impressed selectors with her performances in inter-zonal tournaments for the North Zone Women.
WPL 2026 Auction and Delhi Capitals Call-Up
Ahead of WPL 2026, Nandani Sharma was acquired by Delhi Capitals for INR 20 lakh at the auction. The franchise identified her as a developing fast-bowling option capable of delivering breakthroughs in pressure situations, a decision that paid dividends during the league stage.
Hat-Trick That Rewrote WPL Records
The defining moment for Nandani Sharma came in the 20th over against Gujarat Giants, where she dismissed Kanika Ahuja, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, and Renuka Singh in consecutive deliveries. She finished with remarkable figures of 5 for 33, joining an elite WPL list that includes Issy Wong, Grace Harris, and Deepti Sharma.
Tactical Awareness Behind the Five-Wicket Haul
Speaking after the match, Nandani Sharma credited captain Jemimah Rodrigues and teammate Shafali Verma for constant encouragement. She explained that altering her line and length after her first over proved decisive, allowing her variations to produce wickets at a crucial stage.
Emotional Support and On-Field Composure
Nandani Sharma revealed that her immediate family and close friends were present at the ground, while others watched from home. She highlighted how their support helped her remain composed despite the pressure of bowling the final over.
Match Result Overshadows Personal Milestone
Despite the heroics of Nandani Sharma, Delhi Capitals suffered a narrow four-run defeat after Sophie Devine’s stunning 95 guided Gujarat Giants to their second consecutive win of WPL 2026.
Significance for Indian Women’s Cricket
The achievement of Nandani Sharma represents a breakthrough moment for Indian fast bowlers in the WPL. Her performance underlines the growing depth of domestic talent and sets a benchmark for future seasons.
What Lies Ahead?
With confidence gained from this performance, Nandani Sharma is expected to remain a key figure in Delhi Capitals’ bowling attack as WPL 2026 progresses, with her historic feat already inspiring a new generation of Indian pacers.
