WPL 2025: RCB Fires on All Cylinders, Gujarat Giants’ Generosity Seals the Deal
Vadodra/Patiala, 15 February (Sports Desk)
–Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, and Kanika Ahuja Shine in Record-Breaking Chase for Defending Champions
In a thrilling start to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 , defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) showcased their batting might despite missing key players, overcoming a formidable target of 202 against the Gujarat Giants (GG) . The victory, achieved with six wickets and nine balls to spare, marked the highest successful run-chase in WPL history, powered by an explosive unbeaten 93-run stand between Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja off just 37 balls.
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A Rocky Start for RCB
Before the tournament began, RCB faced significant setbacks as they geared up to defend their title. Key players like Sophie Devine , Sophie Molineux , and Asha Sobhana were unavailable due to injuries or other commitments. Adding to their woes, Shreyanka Patil , one of their standout performers from last season, was absent from the playing XI, hinting at fitness concerns after she posted on social media: “Heartbroken, but I will fly again.”
To compound matters, star all-rounder Ellyse Perry confirmed pre-match that she wouldn’t be bowling initially due to a hip issue. This left RCB without their top wicket-takers from the 2024 WPL final , putting immense pressure on their bowling attack.
However, what remained intact was their explosive batting lineup, which delivered when it mattered most.
Gujarat Giants’ Strong Start
The Gujarat Giants, led by their new captain Ashleigh Gardner , posted a mammoth total of 201/5 thanks to a sensational batting display. Gardner herself played a pivotal role, anchoring the innings before accelerating in the death overs. GG scored 108 runs in the last 11 overs , propelling them to a competitive total that seemed well out of reach for RCB early on.
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RCB’s Batting Masterclass
Chasing 202, RCB got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets and struggling to keep pace with the required run rate. However, Ellyse Perry , despite battling her injury, played a crucial knock of 57 off 34 balls , stabilizing the innings after initial setbacks. Her innings was aided by two dropped catches—one a tough return chance to Tanuja Kanwe when Perry was on 2 , and another a sitter at long-on when she was on 19 .
But the real fireworks began when Richa Ghosh walked in. Dropped on 0 by Simran Shaikh, Richa made the Giants pay dearly, smashing an electrifying 64 off just 27 balls at a staggering strike rate of 237.03 . She found an ideal partner in Kanika Ahuja , who complemented her aggression with smart running and calculated hits. Together, they dismantled the Gujarat Giants’ hopes with a breathtaking partnership.
Fielding Woes Haunt Gujarat Giants
While RCB’s batting stole the show, GG’s fielding let them down badly. Poor catching and sloppy ground fielding cost them dearly. Overthrows and misfields added unnecessary extras, while dropped catches allowed RCB batters to settle and accelerate. Gardner later admitted, “Flattening to be honest. We knew 200 was par, but we had to bowl really well. Unfortunately, those missed chances hurt us in the end.”
Despite the loss, Gardner acknowledged glimpses of promise in her team’s performance but emphasized the need to learn from this setback.
Mandhana’s Take on RCB’s Bowling Concerns
For RCB, skipper Smriti Mandhana acknowledged the challenges posed by their depleted bowling department. Last season, Shreyanka Patil , Sophie Molineux , and Asha Sobhana collectively took 37 wickets , forming the backbone of their attack. Replacing such firepower won’t be easy, especially after GG raced to 201/5 . Mandhana stressed the importance of her bowlers stepping up moving forward but expressed pride in how her team fought back despite the odds.
Key Performances
- Richa Ghosh : 64 off 27 balls (6 fours, 4 sixes) – A masterclass in finishing.
- Ellyse Perry : 57 off 34 balls – Anchored the chase despite her injury.
- Kanika Ahuja : Played second fiddle brilliantly, ensuring no late hiccups.
- Ashleigh Gardner : Stellar knock for GG, setting up a challenging total.
What Lies Ahead?
While RCB will relish this hard-fought win, their bowling vulnerabilities remain a concern. On the other hand, Gardner’s call to “forget the past” may serve as motivation for GG as they aim to climb the table. For now, though, it’s a night to celebrate for RCB, who proved that even without their full-strength squad, they remain a force to reckon with in WPL 2025.
As the tournament progresses, both teams will look to build on this opening encounter—RCB aiming to solidify their defense of the title and GG striving to bounce back stronger.
