At Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Gujarat Giants (GG) by a record six wickets on February 14 in an exciting opening to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season. In addition to setting the tone for the season, this thrilling game saw RCB execute the most successful run chase in WPL history.
Match Overview
After winning the toss, RCB captain Smriti Mandhana decided to bowl first, thinking that dew in the later stages would help the pursuing team. GG took advantage of their batting opportunity, scoring an impressive 201/5 in their stipulated 20 overs. In response, RCB demonstrated tremendous batting prowess, reaching the target with nine balls to spare and ended on 202/4.
Gujarat Giants’ Batting Highlights
Ashleigh Gardner, GG’s captain, spearheaded the innings with a stunning unbeaten 79 off 37 balls. She was strongly assisted by veteran Beth Mooney, who scored 56 runs, and Deandra Dottin, who hit 25 off 13 balls. Their combined efforts set a daunting goal for RCB.
RCB’s Record-Breaking Chase
Faced with a difficult mark, RCB’s chase got off to a rough start, with openers Smriti Mandhana (9) and Danielle Wyatt-Hodge (4) falling early to GG captain Gardner. However, the veteran Ellyse Perry stabilised the innings with an important 57 off 34 balls, creating an 86-run partnership with Raghvi Bist (25). The turning point came when Richa Ghosh hit a scorching undefeated 64 off just 27 balls, ably assisted by Kanika Ahuja’s quick 30 off 13 deliveries. Their strong batting enabled RCB’s victorious chase, which was the biggest run chase in WPL history.
Key Records and Milestones
- Highest Successful Run Chase: RCB’s pursuit of 202 surpassed the previous record of 191 set by Mumbai Indians against Gujarat Giants in 2024.
- Highest Match Aggregate: The combined total of 403 runs in this match set a new benchmark for the highest aggregate in WPL history.
- Fastest Fifties: Richa Ghosh’s explosive half-century came off just 23 balls, placing her among the fastest fifty-makers in the league.
Turning Point: Richa Ghosh‘s Onslaught
The momentum swung radically in RCB’s favor during the 15th over, when Richa Ghosh faced GG’s star bowler and skipper, Ashleigh Gardner. Ghosh scored 23 runs in that over, drastically lowering the needed run rate and favoring RCB.
Fielding Lapses Cost GG
Despite setting a tough target, GG’s defense was plagued by fielding errors, including critical lost receptions and misfields. These mistakes were costly, allowing RCB’s middle order to capitalize and take the game away from GG.
Post-Match Reflections
Smriti Mandhana, the RCB captain, praised her team’s perseverance as well as Perry and Ghosh’s outstanding performances. She underlined the necessity of keeping momentum throughout the event. On the other hand, GG’s captain, Ashleigh Gardner, emphasized the need to improve their fielding and execution in future games to prevent such close losses.
Looking Ahead
This exhilarating opener has set a high standard for the WPL 2025 season. RCB will aim to build on this victory, while GG will look to regroup and address their shortcomings. Fans can anticipate more such thrilling encounters as the season progresses.
In conclusion, the RCB vs. GG match on February 14, 2025, will be remembered as a classic showcase of competitive spirit, record-breaking feats, and the unpredictable nature of cricket that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
