RCB Franchise Clinches maiden Premier League Trophy

By
Teja Devathoti
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41
RCB

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 witnessed a historic moment as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched their maiden title. The team, led by Smriti Mandhana, showcased an exceptional performance throughout the tournament, culminating in an eight-wicket victory over the Delhi Capitals in the final.

Interestingly, this is the RCB franchise’s first-ever Premier League Trophy across men’s and women’s leagues since its inception in 2008.

RCB triumphed over DC in the final

The final match was held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The Delhi Capitals, captained by Meg Lanning, won the toss and chose to bat first. The opening partnership between Lanning and Shafali Verma got off to a strong start, scoring 61 runs in the powerplay overs. However, the game took a turn when Sophie Molineux, RCB’s Australian spinner, dismissed three top-order batters in the eighth over. This triple breakthrough shifted the momentum in RCB’s favour.

The RCB bowlers continued to apply pressure, with Asha Sobhana dismissing experienced campaigners Jess Jonassen and Marizanne Kapp in the 14th over. The Delhi Capitals, who were runners-up in the previous season, struggled to recover and were bundled out for 113 runs in the 19th over.

Chasing a target of 114, RCB openers Smriti Mandhana and Sophie Devine provided a steady start. Despite losing Mandhana and Devine, Ellyse Perry and Richa Ghosh ensured RCB’s victory. Perry, who had been instrumental in RCB’s previous matches, top-scored in the final with an unbeaten 35. Ghosh hit the winning boundary in the final over, securing RCB’s first WPL title.

This victory was particularly significant as it marked RCB’s first win over the Delhi Capitals in five attempts. The player of the match was awarded to Sophie Molineux for her match-winning spell of 3/20. Ellyse Perry, who scored 347 runs in the tournament, claimed the Orange Cap, while Shreyanka Patil, with 13 wickets, bagged the Purple Cap.

The triumph was celebrated not just by the team but also by the fans. Bengaluru witnessed a jubilant outpouring of support from the fans. The victory was also acknowledged by Virat Kohli, whose happiness was evident during a video call with Mandhana.

On the other hand, this is DC’s second straight loss in the finals of WPL. Mumbai Indians under Harmapreet Kaur emerged victorious last year and Smriti Mandhana came out on top this time against Meg Lanning led side.

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