Mithali Applauds Kanika and Richa's Impressive Innings: A Record-Setting Start to WPL 2025
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Synopsis
In a thrilling WPL 2025 opener, Mithali Raj praised Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja for their remarkable performances leading RCB to victory over Gujarat Giants. Their outstanding innings contributed to a record-setting chase, showcasing exceptional talent in women's cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Mithali Raj praised RCB players for their performances.
- RCB achieved the highest successful chase in WPL history.
- Richa and Kanika demonstrated solid partnerships under pressure.
- Ashleigh Gardner’s bowling strategy was analyzed by Mithali.
- This match highlighted the intensity of women's cricket.
New Delhi, Feb 15 (NationPress) Former India captain Mithali Raj praised the spectacular performances of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) players Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja during the record-setting run chase in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 opener against Gujarat Giants on Friday.
RCB captain Smriti Mandhana opted to bowl first after winning the toss. The Gujarat team, led by Beth Mooney (56) and captain Ashleigh Gardner (79 not out), managed to post a challenging total of 201/5 in their 20 overs.
In response, Ellyse Perry contributed a quick-fire 57 off 34 balls, featuring two sixes and six fours. Following her, Richa displayed her power-hitting skills with a remarkable 64 runs off just 27 balls, including four sixes and seven fours, while Kanika added 30 not out off 13 balls with four boundaries, leading RCB to victory with nine balls remaining. This marked the highest successful chase in WPL history, as RCB commenced their title defense with a six-wicket triumph.
During an exclusive interview on Amul Cricket Live, JioHotstar, Mithali Raj reflected on this thrilling season opener. "It’s been a record-breaking commencement, and rightly so. In the first innings, we witnessed Ashleigh Gardner and Deandra Dottin establish a solid foundation with a total of 201 runs. Then, Richa Ghosh, Kanika Ahuja, and Ellyse Perry showcased an outstanding performance during the chase. This match had it all - significant runs, essential partnerships, and high-intensity cricket."
Discussing the partnership between Richa and Kanika, Mithali remarked, "When Richa Ghosh arrived at the crease, she had just lost Ellyse Perry. With Kanika Ahuja also at the crease, both were new batters. They needed to rebuild, especially with the asking rate exceeding 12 runs per over. Richa Ghosh provided crucial support to Kanika, who, despite not hitting large shots, maintained a strike rate above 200 with well-placed boundaries. This allowed Richa to execute her natural attacking game. We have seen her deliver impactful performances for India, and today, she played remarkably for RCB, guiding them to victory. Both Kanika and Richa played exceptional innings."
Evaluating Ashleigh Gardner’s bowling approach, Mithali noted that her strategy of bowling quicker inadvertently facilitated Richa's scoring, leading to a series of boundaries and ultimately, the loss.
"I believe Ashleigh Gardner saved her two overs for Richa Ghosh and Georgia Wareham. Nonetheless, she struggled with her grip, or perhaps, as is often the case, the more she is hit, the faster she bowls. This made it easier for Richa Ghosh to exploit the field, especially with her delicate shots toward the third man for boundaries. When the ball was pitched up, she timed it exquisitely instead of opting for big hits, which enabled her to capitalize on the scoring opportunities," she concluded.
