WPL 2026: Here’s why Danni Wyatt-Hodge not playing today’s DC-W vs GG-W match

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England batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge was a notable absentee as Gujarat Giants (GG-W) took on Delhi Capitals (DC-W)  in Match 17 of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara, on Tuesday (January 27). The omission of the experienced opener sparked curiosity among fans, especially given her importance to Gujarat Giants’ batting lineup.

At the toss, Gujarat Giants captain Ashleigh Gardner clarified the reason behind Wyatt-Hodge’s absence, confirming that the England international was unavailable due to sickness. The change was described as a forced one, rather than a tactical decision.

“Dani Wyatt is out with sickness,” Gardner said, explaining that the team had to reshuffle their batting order as a result. Her comments helped put an end to speculation around rotation or form-based exclusion.

With Wyatt-Hodge sidelined, Sophie Devine was promoted back to the top of the batting order, a role she is well accustomed to. Gardner emphasized that Devine’s presence provides added firepower, particularly 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 of the order,” Gardner noted, highlighting the flexibility within the squad. The change also saw Georgia Wareham returning to the playing XI.

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 Jemimah Rodrigues, DC fielded a strong XI featuring a blend of pace, power and all-round depth.

Their playing XI included Shafali Verma, Lizelle Lee (wicketkeeper), Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Chinelle Henry, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Shree Charani and Nandni Sharma.

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Despite Wyatt-Hodge’s absence, Gujarat Giants named a formidable side. Alongside Devine and Gardner, the XI featured Beth Mooney as wicketkeeper, Anushka Sharma, Georgia Wareham, Kanika Ahuja, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwer, Renuka Singh Thakur and Rajeshwari Gayakwad.

The lineup reflected Gujarat’s confidence in their squad depth and their ability to absorb the loss of an overseas batter without compromising competitiveness.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.