Delhi: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) showcased their prowess by outclassing Delhi Capitals and securing their maiden WPL title with a comprehensive 8-wicket victory in a thrilling finale to the Women’s Premier League 2024. The match, held at a packed stadium, witnessed a stellar display of spin bowling from RCB that restricted Delhi Capitals to a modest total of 113 runs.
Opting to bat first, Delhi Capitals started aggressively with Shafali Varma leading the charge. Varma’s onslaught saw her smashing three sixes and two fours, accumulating a fiery 44 runs. However, RCB’s Sophie Molineux turned the tables with a sensational three-wicket over, dismantling the Capitals’ top order. Despite Meg Lanning’s efforts, Delhi Capitals suffered a dramatic collapse, failing to capitalize on the promising start.
RCB’s spin attack proved to be the game-changer, as they strangled the Capitals’ batting lineup with precision. Shreyanka Patil’s disciplined bowling yielded impressive figures of 4-12, while Asha Shobana made crucial breakthroughs to dismantle the lower order. The Capitals, once poised for a formidable total, were bundled out for 113 runs in 18.3 overs.
Chasing a modest target, RCB approached the innings with calculated aggression. Led by skipper Smriti Mandhana and the attacking Sophie Devine, RCB’s top order laid a solid foundation with a 49-run opening stand. Despite a brief hiccup after Mandhana’s dismissal, Ellyse Perry anchored the chase with a composed unbeaten knock of 35 runs.
Delhi Capitals attempted to apply pressure in the dying stages of the match, but Richa Ghosh’s boundary off the final over sealed the victory for RCB. The Bangalore-based franchise ended their trophy drought in style, clinching the title with an emphatic 8-wicket win.
The Women’s Premier League 2024 witnessed thrilling encounters and exceptional performances throughout the tournament. Royal Challengers Bangalore’s triumph not only highlights their dominance but also underscores the growing stature of women’s cricket.