Vadodara, February 14, 2025 – In a high-octane opening match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerged victorious against Gujarat Giants (GG) by 6 wickets with 9 balls to spare. Chasing a challenging target of 202 runs, RCB showcased a stellar batting performance, led by Richa Ghosh’s explosive 64* off just 27 balls and Kanika Ahuja’s quickfire 30* off 13 deliveries.
Match Summary
Gujarat Giants, batting first, posted a formidable total of 201/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to a brilliant 79 by Ashleigh Gardner and a composed 56 from Beth Mooney. Gardner’s innings was laced with powerful strokes, while Mooney anchored the innings with her trademark elegance. However, RCB’s bowlers managed to pull things back in the final overs, restricting GG from crossing the 210-run mark.
In response, RCB got off to a shaky start, losing key wickets early. However, Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja turned the game on its head with a sensational 50-run partnership in just 23 balls. Ghosh’s half-century, which came off 23 deliveries, was the highlight of the chase, as she smashed sixes and boundaries at will. Ahuja complemented her perfectly, playing innovative shots to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Turning Point
The match took a dramatic turn in the 16th over when Richa Ghosh was dropped by the Giants’ fielders. Capitalizing on the reprieve, Ghosh unleashed a flurry of boundaries, including a massive six off Ash Gardner in the 17th over. The 23-run over shifted the momentum firmly in RCB’s favor, and from there on, it was a one-way street.
Key Performances
- Richa Ghosh (RCB): 64 off 27 balls (5 fours, 4 sixes)
- Kanika Ahuja (RCB): 30off 13 balls (4 fours, 1 six)
- Ashleigh Gardner (GG): 79 off 47 balls (8 fours, 3 sixes)
- Beth Mooney (GG): 56 off 42 balls (7 fours, 1 six)
Post-Match Reactions
RCB captain Smriti Mandhana, who missed the match due to injury, praised her team’s fighting spirit. “It was a tough chase, but Richa and Kanika showed incredible composure. This is the kind of start we wanted for the season,” she said in a post-match interview.
Gujarat Giants’ skipper, on the other hand, rued the missed opportunities. “We had the game in control, but a couple of dropped catches cost us dearly. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger,” she added.
What’s Next?
The WPL 2025 season promises more thrilling encounters as the tournament progresses. RCB will look to build on this momentum, while Gujarat Giants will aim to bounce back in their next fixture. Cricket fans can expect more fireworks as the league unfolds.
Stay tuned for more updates and live action from the Women’s Premier League 2025!
Reported by Kunal Pandey
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