Unbroken Knocks: Near-Centuries in the Women's Premier League
The Women's Premier League (WPL), launched in 2023, has been a stage for some of the most thrilling cricket matches in India. While the tournament has seen numerous record-breaking performances, one milestone remains elusive: the first-ever century. In this article, we delve into the closest calls, highlighting the players who have come agonizingly close to achieving this feat.
Close but No Cigar: The Near-Centurions
Several players have come close to scoring a century in the WPL. Here are the top six highest individual scores that fell short of the coveted milestone:
- 92: Meg Lanning (2025) - Despite her commanding 92, Lanning's effort came in a losing cause for Delhi Capitals against Gujarat Giants.
- 95: Sophie Devine (2026) - Devine delivered a breathtaking all-round performance, scoring 95 off just 42 balls to set up a win for Gujarat Giants against Delhi Capitals.
- 95: Harmanpreet Kaur (2024) - Kaur produced one of the greatest innings in WPL history, scoring an unbeaten 95 off 48 balls to help Mumbai Indians win against Gujarat Giants.
- 96: Smriti Mandhana (2026) - Mandhana produced a sublime innings of 96 for Royal Challengers Bangalore, narrowly missing a century against Delhi Capitals.
- 96: Alyssa Healy (2023) - Healy scored an unbeaten 96 to lead UP Warriorz to a crushing win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
- 96: Beth Mooney (2025) - Mooney guided Gujarat Giants to a crushing win over UP Warriorz with an unbeaten 96.
North East Connection: Sophie Devine's Impact
Sophie Devine, a New Zealander, has played a significant role in the WPL, scoring two of the highest individual scores. Her 95 for Gujarat Giants against Delhi Capitals in 2026 was a game-changer, setting up an imposing total that helped her team secure a win. This performance not only showcased Devine's batting prowess but also highlighted her ability to perform under pressure.
Looking Ahead: The Quest for the First Century
As the WPL enters its fourth season, the quest for the first century continues. The near-centurions listed above have demonstrated their ability to deliver under pressure, and it's only a matter of time before one of them breaks the barrier. The WPL has already produced some of the most exciting cricket matches in India, and the pursuit of the first century promises to add another layer of excitement to the tournament.
Reflections and Implications
The near-centuries in the WPL not only showcase the quality of batting in the league but also highlight the high standard of bowling. The razor-thin margins that have denied batters a place in triple figures underscore the competitive nature of the tournament. As the WPL continues to grow, it's exciting to imagine what the future holds for women's cricket in India.