WPL: We Will Come Back Stronger Next Year, Says GG Head Coach Klinger

Vadodara: Gujarat Giants head coach Michael Klinger believes the team showed significant improvement during the WPL 2026 season, though he admitted there was disappointment after the franchise was knocked out of the tournament following its eliminator loss to Delhi Capitals on Tuesday.

Finishing second on the points table marked a positive progression for the Giants and reflected their composure in close matches during the league stage. However, it also exposed areas needing improvement, especially during crucial moments.

The Giants recorded a clean sweep against UP Warriorz, ended their long winless streak against Mumbai Indians, and defeated Delhi Capitals twice, including tight last-over victories, where Sophie Devine played a key role by maintaining composure under pressure.

Despite their confidence and several narrow victories, defeats against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in both encounters prevented them from securing a stronger position in the league phase. Klinger acknowledged that the season ended in disappointment once again, with the Giants missing out on advancing beyond the eliminator stage for consecutive years in 2025 and 2026.

“Yes, finishing second this year is a huge improvement. But in the two eliminators we played over the last two seasons, we probably didn’t perform at our best. We discussed in our team meeting that when we play close to our best, we have the ability to beat any team in this competition. Unfortunately, today we didn’t reach that level with either bat or ball,” Klinger said while speaking to the media after the defeat.

Despite the setback, Klinger described the overall season as encouraging. “We learned a lot about our team this year. Whether we win the championship or not, we now clearly understand the areas we need to improve for next season. We have nearly ten months to monitor both domestic and overseas players, make adjustments, and hopefully return stronger next year.”

He added that consistent qualification itself is a positive sign. “Qualifying for two consecutive seasons is something many teams would prefer instead of exiting early. We are satisfied but still aiming for bigger achievements. We will keep giving ourselves opportunities by qualifying and aim to perform better in big matches next season.”

Klinger also expressed optimism about emerging Indian talent in the squad and described the season as a foundation for future success.

“I think it’s about players taking the next step. Anushka Sharma had a strong debut season and got several good starts, which is excellent for a young player. The next step for her is to realise her full potential and aim to become a 300-plus run scorer in the WPL. She is a wonderful player and person, and she has a great opportunity to play for India before next season. That international experience will benefit both her and the team,” he said.

He also praised Bharti Fulmali for her promising start to the season but noted that low-bounce pitches in Vadodara may have affected her performance. Klinger emphasised the importance of confidence and dominance at the crease, suggesting that adopting an aggressive mindset like some top Indian batters could help her grow further.

The coach also expressed hope for Yastika Bhatia’s return next season, provided she remains fit, adding that her presence would strengthen the Indian core of the squad.

From a bowling perspective, Klinger spoke about maintaining balance and improving adaptability. He highlighted the team’s fighting spirit, particularly in their two wins against Delhi Capitals.

“Our victories against Delhi showed our fighting attitude, even when we were under pressure in the final six balls. We constantly talk about that mindset. There’s a big sign in our team room that says ‘Fight.’ We will review performances with players over time as they return to domestic cricket and work on areas that need improvement,” he said.

He praised the pace attack for its effectiveness when the ball was swinging but stressed the need for bowlers to develop alternative strategies once swing conditions fade.

Klinger also spoke highly of young pacer Happy Kumari, expressing surprise over her omission from an upcoming domestic squad. “She is a fantastic young bowler with rare pace, line, and length. I hope she continues to get opportunities because she has something special, and we look forward to seeing her return next year,” he added.