WPL: Richa Ghosh’s efforts in vain as Delhi secures a spot for playoffs

In the 17th match of the 2024 Women’s Premier League at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, the clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Delhi Capitals Women unfolded into a thrilling encounter, ultimately won by DC Women by a mere one run, securing their spot in the playoffs.

Batting first, DC’s openers Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma cautiously started before launching an assault, accumulating 54 runs in 6.2 overs. Shafali was dismissed at 23, followed by Lanning’s departure at 29.

Then Jemimah Rodrigues and Alice Capsey then took the stage, adding a formidable 97 runs for the third wicket. Jemimah scored a fine 58, while Capsey contributed a crucial 48. Marizanne Kapp’s late blows propelled Delhi to a total of 181 in 20 overs. Shreyanka Patil, making a comeback for RCB, stood out by taking four crucial wickets to restrict DC.

Chasing the target, RCB faced an early setback with the dismissal of captain Smrithi Mandhana. However, Sophie Molineux and Ellyse Perry’s 80-run partnership for the second wicket revitalized RCB’s innings. Despite Perry’s run-out, Molineux continued the fight until her dismissal.

Sophie Devine and Richa Ghosh then turned the tide, bringing RCB back into contention. Devine contributed 26, but it was Ghosh’s resilient 51 off 29 that kept RCB’s hopes alive. In a nail-biting finish, needing two off the last ball, Ghosh was run out, and RCB lost by a solitary run and Ghosh’s valiant effort, unfortunately, fell short.

Top Performers of the Match

Richa Ghosh (51 of 29)

Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh showcased an exceptional performance, almost single-handedly rescuing RCB from a precarious situation. Despite being run out on the final ball, Ghosh’s brilliant knock of 51, comprising four fours and three sixes, emerged as the best inning of the match.

Shreyanka Patil (26/4, 4 overs)

Off-spinner Shreyanka Patil, who was excluded from the playing 11 but earned a spot for this game, showcased her class. She bowled a brilliant four-over spell, securing four crucial wickets to prevent DC from crossing the 200 mark, a milestone that seemed certain at one point. She emerged as the standout bowler of the match.

What next?

Next up, the Delhi Capitals Women are scheduled to face Gujarat Giants Women at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on March 13th. Meanwhile, on March 12th, the RCB Women will lock horns with Mumbai Indians Women at the same venue.