Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 witnessed a high-octane clash on January 20, as Delhi Capitals (DC) Women faced off against Mumbai Indians (MI) Women in the 13th match of the season at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. While DC secured a convincing 7-wicket victory to bolster their standings, the match was marred by a heated exchange between opener Lizelle Lee and the match officials. Despite the triumph, Lee’s aggressive reaction to a controversial dismissal has resulted in formal disciplinary action from the league.
In a chase of 155, DC looked comfortable until the 11th over, when Lee was dismissed for a blistering 46 off 28 balls. The South African powerhouse, who has been a revelation this season with 213 runs at a strike rate of 154.35, fell victim to a divisive stumping decision. After hitting Amanjot Kaur for a six, Lee lost her balance on a subsequent delivery down the leg side. While she appeared to grounded her bat quickly, the third umpire, after extensive deliberation across multiple angles, ruled that her bat was marginally in the air when Rahila Firdous whipped off the bails.
Lizelle Lee handed fine and demerit point for clash with umpire after questionable dismissal
The decision sparked immediate outrage from Lee. As the “OUT” signal flashed on the big screen, the 33-year-old engaged in an animated and lengthy confrontation with umpire Rathi. Clearly livid, Lee’s departure from the field was anything but quiet, as she continued to express her frustration regarding the technicalities of the stumping. The irony of the situation was not lost on spectators, as Lee has previously expressed a desire to pursue umpiring as a career path following her retirement from professional cricket.
Even with all the tech we have on Cricket, it is still not enough. Lizelle Lee given out.
The question is about the tech and not about the decision.#wpl pic.twitter.com/Gw96rIBTlb
— Anand L (@kharshad0) January 20, 2026
This outburst did not go unnoticed by the match referee. Following the game, a media advisory confirmed that Lee had been penalized for a Level 1 offense under Article 2.2 of the WPL Code of Conduct. This specific article pertains to the abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings. As a result, Lee has been fined 10% of her match fee and handed one demerit point.
Lizelle Lee goes for 46, she is not happy with the 3rd umpire’s decision 👀#LizelleLee #DCvMI #wpl2026 pic.twitter.com/UFAf1bg7wP
— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) January 20, 2026
Jemimah Rodrigues steers Delhi capitals to a clinical win
Despite the mid-innings drama, Delhi Capitals remained composed to chase down the target with six balls to spare. The foundation was laid by a solid 63-run opening stand between Lee and the explosive Shafali Verma. Following their departures, skipper Jemimah Rodrigues took charge of the pursuit. Rodrigues anchored the innings with a masterclass in gap-finding and strike rotation, finishing with an unbeaten 51 off 37 balls. Her captain’s knock ensured DC reached 155/3 in the 19th over, earning her the Player of the Match award.
The victory is a significant statement for Delhi, especially as Lee has successfully filled the massive void left by former captain Meg Lanning. However, with one demerit point now on her record, Lee will need to temper her on-field reactions in the coming fixtures to avoid more severe suspensions.
Also READ: Mumbai Indians’ youngster G Kamalini ruled out of WPL 2026; replacement announced
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
