Deepti Shines as RCB Seals Historic Victory in Women’s Premier League Final

In a disappointing turn of events, the UP Warriorz fell short of qualifying for the playoffs, concluding their campaign in the fourth position with a tally of three wins and five losses.

Reflecting on her performance throughout the tournament, Deepti expressed satisfaction with her contributions. She emphasized her adherence to her game plan and credited her diligent practice, particularly focusing on enhancing her off-side play. Having been given more opportunities to bat this season compared to the last, Deepti was pleased to have made meaningful contributions to her team’s cause during crucial moments. She expressed hopes of maintaining her form going forward.

Deepti’s standout individual performance saw her amass 295 runs across eight matches, boasting an impressive average of 98.33 and a formidable strike rate exceeding 136. Her innings included three half-centuries, with her highest score being an unbeaten 88*. Additionally, she proved her utility with the ball, claiming 10 wickets throughout the tournament.

Shifting focus to the highly anticipated title clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC), it was an all-round display from RCB that ultimately secured them their maiden Women’s Premier League (WPL) title. Led by a stellar batting performance from Ellyse Perry and exceptional bowling spells from spinners Shreyanka Patil and Sophie Molineux, RCB clinched an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Delhi got off to a promising start courtesy of a brisk opening partnership between Shafali Varma and skipper Meg Lanning, which yielded 64 runs in quick time. However, the momentum swiftly shifted in RCB’s favor as Patil, Molineux, and Asha Sobhana orchestrated a dramatic collapse in the Delhi batting lineup. Ultimately, Delhi Capitals were bundled out for a modest 113 runs in 18.3 overs.

In pursuit of the target, RCB commenced confidently with a solid 49-run opening stand, spearheaded by Sophie Devine’s aggressive stroke play. Despite facing some resistance from the Delhi bowlers during the middle overs, RCB managed to maintain composure. Although skipper Smriti Mandhana’s departure added a moment of tension, Perry, alongside Richa Ghosh, guided RCB across the finish line with three balls to spare.

Molineux’s impactful all-round performance earned her the coveted ‘Player of the Match’ accolade, encapsulating her pivotal role in RCB’s title triumph.