WPL 2024: What Are The Top 5 Moments And Takeaways?

As the Women’s Premier League 2024 (WPL 2024) unfolded, it showcased an array of exhilarating moments and significant takeaways that not only enthralled cricket enthusiasts but also hinted at a promising future for the sport.

Let’s delve into the top highlights of this electrifying season of WPL 2024:

The emergence of finishers and power hitters

The adrenaline-pumping action of WPL 2024 commenced with an unforgettable moment when S Sajana, with nerves of steel, smashed a six in the last-ball finish against the formidable Delhi Capitals. This thrilling start set the tone for what was to follow.

Sajana’s strike rate of 158.18 this season underscored her prowess as a power hitter, signalling a refreshing trend in the league. Joining her in the league of formidable hitters were Indian internationals– Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma, boasting strike rates of 141.98 and 136.57, respectively.

Even Jemimah Rodrigues brought her A-game to the forefront with a dazzling strike rate of 153.59 which was refreshing to see in the middle order.

Another fascinating stat is how the list of top six hitters has Shafali Verma with 20 glorious sixes, followed by Richa Ghosh & Smriti Mandhana (10 sixes each) and with Deepti Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur & Jemimah Rodrigues (8 sixes each). The fact that there are multiple Indian players among the top hitters shows that India doesn’t rely solely on one or two players to score big hits.

This depth in batting can make the team more formidable and difficult to plan against opposing teams. It also bodes well for India’s chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup, as it showcases their strength in batting and adds to the team’s overall confidence and strategic options.

Their performances dazzled the spectators and hinted at the promising future of Indian cricket, with a new breed of explosive batters ready to make their mark on the international stage.

RCB’s performances this season

In a season filled with twists and turns, perhaps none were as remarkable as RCB’s journey to clinch the title. Despite a lukewarm performance in the league stages, with four wins and four losses, RCB staged a breathtaking turnaround in the playoffs. Their stellar performance in the Eliminator against Mumbai Indians and a nerve-wracking final showdown against Delhi Capitals left fans on the edge of their seats.

Noteworthy was Shreyanka’s exceptional bowling prowess, earning her the prestigious Purple Cap for most wickets (13), while Ellyse Perry’s scintillating batting display secured her the Orange Cap for most runs (347 runs).

More notably, even Ellyse Perry’s six to break the glass of a car parked in the stadium serves as a reminder and rhetoric of breaking the proverbial glass ceiling; elevating women’s cricket to greater heights and shattering the myth of women’s cricket not being good enough.

RCB’s triumph not only added another chapter to their illustrious history but also served as a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. Not only did they win the championship but also the Fairplay Award Trophy which was a fitting conclusion to a stellar campaign led by Smriti Mandhana.

Deepti Sharma- MVP

Amidst the constellation of stars in WPL 2024, one name shone the brightest – Deepti Sharma. Renowned for her versatility as an all-rounder, Deepti Sharma’s stellar performance earned her the coveted Most Valuable Player Award this season.

With a remarkable tally of 295 runs and 10 wickets, Deepti not only showcased her batting and bowling prowess but also etched her name in the annals of WPL history.

Her hat-trick and consistent brilliance throughout the season were instrumental in guiding her team to glory, making her a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket.

Viewership highs and spectators thronging the stadiums

Beyond the boundary ropes, WPL 2024 set new benchmarks in terms of viewership and spectator engagement. The league dominated the digital space, with Women’s Premier League 2024 on JioCinema emerging as the top title, attracting a staggering 4.86 million unique viewers.

The surge in viewership not only reflected the growing popularity of women’s cricket but also underscored the league’s ability to captivate audiences across demographics.

Moreover, the sight of packed stadiums in Bengaluru and Delhi, with passionate fans cheering their favourite teams, added to the spectacle, highlighting the enduring appeal of live cricketing action.

Domestic players coming to the fore

As the curtains drew on WPL 2024, another compelling narrative emerged – the rise of domestic talent.

Players like Asha Sobhana, Tanuja Kanwer, Minu Mani, Shabnam Shakil, Saima Thakor, Bharti Fulmali and others showcased their mettle on the grand stage, proving that the league was not just about star power but also about nurturing grassroots talent.

Their stellar performances not only earned them accolades but also served as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country, reaffirming the league’s role in fostering the next generation of cricketing superstars.

What more?

WPL 2024 was more than just a cricketing extravaganza; it was a celebration of talent, resilience, and the undying spirit of the game.

As the dust settles on another thrilling season, one thing remains clear – the future of women’s cricket is brighter than ever, fueled by moments of brilliance and the promise of more to come.

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