A Memorable Beginning
Lizelle Lee’s introduction to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with Delhi Capitals was nothing short of dramatic, a rollercoaster that swiftly transformed into a showcase of skill and poise. Despite having retired from international cricket, Lee was entrusted with wicketkeeping duties in DC’s opening match against Mumbai Indians at Navi Mumbai on Saturday, January 10, and she wasted no time in making her presence felt.
Impact Behind the Stumps
From the very first ball, Lee demonstrated her sharp instincts and athletic brilliance. She opened the account by dismissing Amelia Kerr, diving to her right and initially spilling the catch, only to react instantly and secure the wicket from the rebound inches above the ground. This electrifying moment immediately set the tone for the contest. Her influence continued in the seventh over when she secured a clean catch off Kamalini’s sliced drive, granting debutant Nandani Sharma her first WPL wicket. Each dismissal sparked animated celebrations, with Jemimah Rodrigues leading the cheers as Lee stamped her authority in her debut performance.
Who is Lizelle Lee?
Lizelle Lee began her international journey at the age of 21, rapidly establishing herself as one of the most destructive batters in women’s cricket. Over the next three years, she played over 60 international matches, recording eleven half-centuries and maintaining a batting average of 25 across formats for South Africa. One of her career highlights came during the 2014 Women’s World T20 in Bangladesh, where she shared an unbeaten 163-run opening stand with Dane van Niekerk against Pakistan, setting the record for the highest undefeated partnership in women’s T20I history.
A Legacy of Resilience and Impact
Although Lee retired from international cricket in 2022, her influence in franchise leagues has remained formidable. During the 2025 WBBL, she faced scrutiny following a rare wicketkeeping error that went viral, but she rebounded spectacularly by guiding Hobart Hurricanes to their first-ever title with a match-winning performance in the final. Her WPL debut mirrored this pattern of resilience, blending flair and determination to make an instant impression.
