Vadodara: Delhi Capitals produced a statement performance to halt Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s unbeaten run, sealing a commanding seven-wicket win in the Women’s Premier League and surging to second on the points table at Vadodara on Saturday night.
After outplaying Mumbai Indians earlier, Delhi made it two big scalps in succession by dismantling the table-toppers with disciplined bowling before chasing down a modest target with calm authority, wrapping up the contest inside the 18th over.
RCB’s evening unravelled after a promising start. Smriti Mandhana stood tall at the top, but support was scarce as Delhi tightened the screws. From 62 for 1, RCB slid into a collapse, losing wickets in clusters to post their lowest total of the season. Nandini Sharma led the attack with 3 for 26 to claim the Purple Cap, while every Delhi bowler chipped in to maintain relentless pressure.
In reply, Delhi chose intent over caution. Shafali Verma’s brisk start set the tone, and though a couple of early wickets briefly checked the momentum, the chase was never in doubt. Jemimah Rodrigues and Laura Wolvaardt stitched together a decisive partnership, rotating strike smartly and punishing loose deliveries. Wolvaardt anchored the innings with an unbeaten 42, while Marizanne Kapp (19*) finished the job after RCB’s fielding lapses eased the task.
Kapp, named Player of the Match for her all-round impact (2/17 and 19*), said she was still finding her rhythm but relished bowling under pressure in the Powerplay. Captain Jemimah credited the team’s belief and execution, highlighting the attacking mindset and a momentum-shifting catch when Mandhana was batting.
For RCB, Mandhana termed it an off day, admitting the side fell short with the bat and was sloppy in the field, but remained confident of a stronger response.
The WPL takes a one-day break before resuming on Monday, January 26, when Mumbai Indians face Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Delhi, meanwhile, will carry renewed momentum into the business end of the tournament.
Source:WPL
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