In one of the most thrilling chases in Women’s Premier League (WPL) history, Richa Ghosh delivered a breathtaking performance to power Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a sensational victory. Her unbeaten 64 off just 27 balls turned the game on its head, ensuring RCB chased down a daunting 202-run target with ease. And, star all-rounder Ellyse Perry applauded her.
Match Context: The Challenge Ahead for RCB
Facing Gujarat Giants’ formidable total of 201/5, RCB needed a strong start. However, early setbacks put them on the back foot. With 101 runs required off the last 53 balls, the chase looked steep—until Richa Ghosh stepped in.
Richa Ghosh: The Hero of the Night
Ghosh walked in at a crucial moment, with RCB struggling to keep up with the required rate. A dropped catch early in her innings turned out to be a lifeline, and she made sure to capitalize. What followed was an exhibition of power-hitting as she dismantled Gujarat’s bowling attack.
The defining moment came in the 16th over when Ghosh took on Ashleigh Gardner, smashing 23 runs off the over. This completely shifted the momentum in RCB’s favor, putting them in control of the chase.
Ellyse Perry’s Contribution: Laying the Foundation
Before Ghosh’s heroics, Ellyse Perry played a pivotal role in steadying the innings. Her well-compiled 57 off 34 balls kept RCB in the hunt. Reflecting on the game, Perry emphasized the importance of execution, saying, “It’s only gonna be the first of quite a few chases that are gonna be big this year. It just has that feeling to it. I do think we got the best of the conditions batting second, but you’re gonna make the most of that, and we we did that really well.”
During the first innings while fielding, she dropped a catch. In response, she said, “I mean, sometimes those things happen. No one means to drop a catch, but there’s always the next opportunity to make a difference for the team.”
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Kanika Ahuja’s Explosive Cameo
Playing her first WPL match after missing the previous season due to injury, Kanika Ahuja made an immediate impact. Her fearless 30* off just 13 balls provided the perfect support to Ghosh, forming a match-winning 93-run partnership off just 37 deliveries.
RCB’s chase started on a shaky note as both Smriti Mandhana and debutant Danni Wyatt-Hodge fell early in the same over to Gardner. However, Perry’s composed innings ensured the chase stayed on track.
Key Quotes from Ellyse Perry
Ellyse Perry was full of praise for Ghosh and Ahuja, acknowledging their composure and match-winning contributions.
Perry said, “Richa, she does it with so much poise and calmness, which is pretty awesome to watch. And you just feel like you know every time the balls in her slot, she’s gonna put it over the rope, which she does more often than not.”
Reflecting on the thrilling contest, Perry hinted at what’s to come in the tournament, “That was an amazing way to finish the game. I think there’s just going to be really entertaining cricket from every team in this comp (competition) and it’s just a pleasure to be a part of it.”
RCB’s Bowling Efforts: The Struggles and Standouts
Despite Gujarat Giants setting a formidable total, RCB’s bowlers had some standout moments. Renuka Singh led the attack with figures of 2/25, dismissing the dangerous Laura Wolvaardt early.
Ashleigh Gardner’s Explosive Batting Display
Gujarat’s total was built on the back of Gardner’s 79* off 37 balls, equaling the WPL record for most sixes in an innings. Beth Mooney also played a key role with her steady 56 off 42. The turning point of the match was the missed catch of Ghosh early in her innings. That drop proved costly, allowing RCB to mount a historic comeback.
With this win, RCB has made a strong statement. They now face Delhi Capitals on February 17, looking to extend their winning run. For Gujarat Giants, it’s back to the drawing board.
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