WBBL 2023 [WATCH]: Harmanpreet Kaur and Sophie Devine engage in war of words during MR-W vs PS-W clash

The Women’s Big Bash League 2023 (WBBL) 2023 witnessed a fiery exchange between Indian Women’s Cricket team captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, and New Zealand cricketing stalwart Sophie Devine during a recent game on Friday, November 3.

The heated exchange

The incident unfolded in the clash between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers. Harmanpreet was at the crease, batting on a strong 43 runs, as she faced Devine’s bowling during the 16th over of the match.

Trouble ensued when Harmanpreet, engrossed in her preparations for the last delivery of the over, failed to notice Devine’s approach. As the Indian star finally looked up, Devine unleashed a delivery. Beth Mooney, the Scorchers’ wicketkeeper and a star Australian batter, easily collected the ball behind the stumps. Harmanpreet, however, appeared displeased with Devine’s actions and animatedly sought an explanation. She raised her left hand, directing her query to Devine and the umpires.

Devine, in response, defended her actions, leading to a tense on-field exchange. The umpires intervened, momentarily halting the game, and ultimately declared the delivery invalid. Devine was instructed to bowl the delivery again. Despite her evident displeasure, Devine ensured she got a confirmation from Harmanpreet that she was ready for the next delivery, signaling with a thumbs-up.

Here is the video:

"There's a bit of argy-bargy going on between Harmanpreet (Kaur) and Soph (Devine), and I'm actually not sure who would win that battle because Harmanpreet scares me a little bit," says Beth Mooney as she describes what's happening… 😅 #WBBL09 pic.twitter.com/LOpRPKetyg

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 3, 2023

Also READ: WBBL 2023 – Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine shine as Perth Scorchers beat Melbourne Renegades; Harmanpreet Kaur’s effort in vain

Harmanpreet scares me: Beth Mooney

Notably, amidst the exchange, Mooney, who had a front-row view of the confrontation, had a different and humorous take. She shared her thoughts, and said Harmanpreet scares her. She said: “There’s a bit of argy-bargy going on between Harmanpreet and Sophie, and I’m actually not sure who would win that battle because Harmanpreet scares me a little bit.”

Perth Scorchers get the better of Melbourne Renegades

In the game itself, Melbourne Renegades posted a competitive total of 171/6 in their allocated 20 overs after winning the toss and choosing to bat. Harmanpreet showcased her batting prowess, crafting an unbeaten half-century. She contributed 52 runs from 49 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and a six. Georgia Wareham also played a significant role, adding 44 runs from 25 balls.

Perth Scorchers successfully chased down the target in 17.2 overs. Mooney led the charge with an unbeaten 59, while Sophie Devine’s explosive 52 off 31 balls made a vital contribution to the victory.

Also READ: Beth Mooney rocks ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings