In a thrilling start to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved a record-breaking chase, overhauling a formidable target of 202 runs set by the Gujarat Giants. This remarkable feat, accomplished at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, now stands as the highest successful run chase in WPL history.
The match commenced with the Gujarat Giants displaying aggressive intent. Their innings was anchored by a sensational performance from Ashleigh Gardner, who equaled the record for the most sixes in a single WPL innings. Gardner’s explosive batting propelled the Giants to a daunting total of 202 runs, setting a challenging target for the defending champions.
Facing a steep chase, RCB’s innings began on a shaky note, with early wickets putting them under pressure at 14/2. However, the experienced Ellyse Perry steadied the ship, crafting a pivotal partnership with Raghvi Bisht. Perry’s composed knock of 57 runs off 34 balls laid the foundation for the chase, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
The turning point of the match came with the unbroken partnership between Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja. Entering the fray with the required run rate climbing, the duo exhibited a blend of aggression and finesse. Ghosh’s unbeaten 64 and Ahuja’s quickfire 30 not out culminated in a 93-run stand off just 37 balls. Their relentless assault on the Giants’ bowlers ensured that RCB reached the target with six wickets in hand, completing the chase inside 19 overs.
This successful pursuit not only secured a victory for RCB but also etched their names into the WPL record books. The previous highest successful chase was held by the Mumbai Indians, who chased down 191 runs against the Gujarat Giants in the 2024 season. RCB’s achievement has now set a new benchmark for teams in the league, highlighting the evolving competitive spirit and rising standards in women’s cricket.
The match also witnessed the highest aggregate of runs in a WPL game, with a combined total of 403 runs scored by both teams. This surpassed the previous record of 391 runs in a match between the same two teams in the 2023 season, underscoring the increasing prowess and entertainment value in the women’s game.
Reflecting on the victory, RCB’s captain lauded the team’s resilience and adaptability. She emphasized the importance of experienced players like Perry, whose calm demeanor under pressure provided stability during critical junctures. The captain also praised the youthful exuberance of Ghosh and Ahuja, whose fearless approach exemplified the team’s ‘Play Bold’ philosophy.
On the other hand, the Gujarat Giants, despite posting a formidable total, were left to rue missed opportunities in the field and the inability to contain RCB’s middle-order assault. Ashleigh Gardner’s stellar performance with the bat was a standout, but the team’s bowling unit struggled to maintain control during the latter stages of the match.
This historic encounter has set an exhilarating tone for the WPL 2025 season. Fans can look forward to more high-octane matches as teams vie for supremacy, drawing inspiration from RCB’s record-setting chase. The evolution of strategies, coupled with individual brilliance, promises a captivating tournament ahead, further elevating the profile of women’s cricket on the global stage.
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