WPL 2025: Mithali Raj Attributes DC's Victory to UPW's Fielding Mistakes

New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) Former India captain Mithali Raj emphasized that the UP Warriorz poor fielding played a significant role in enabling the Delhi Capitals to successfully chase down 167 runs, securing a seven-wicket victory in match six of WPL 2025.

After limiting UPW to 166/7, captain Meg Lanning laid the groundwork for DC's chase with a stellar 69. Following her dismissal, DC required 32 runs from the final three overs. The seasoned Marizanne Kapp (29 not out) and Annabel Sutherland (41 not out) rose to the occasion, completing the chase in the last over, marking a triumphant end to DC's stint in WPL 2025 in Vadodara.

They benefitted from a dropped catch of Marizanne by substitute Alana King, along with several misfields that led to consecutive boundaries in the final over. The sloppy fielding was epitomized by Tahlia McGrath failing to gather the ball at mid-on during a non-striker's end run-out attempt, which ultimately resulted in the winning run for DC.

"That was a pivotal over. Even though Delhi Capitals needed more runs than the balls left, we witnessed a few lapses in UP Warriorz' fielding, which ultimately assisted Delhi in chasing the target," Mithali remarked on JioHotstar.

Discussing Meg's outstanding captaincy performance, which also helped her set a record for the most half-centuries in the WPL, Mithali stated, "It’s no surprise that she has amassed the most runs and half-centuries, but today's innings was distinctly different from her prior two. She played a lot straighter in front of the wicket, exhibiting her signature drives."

“While her strengths have typically been behind the wicket, today showcased her more aggressive shots over mid-off and mid-wicket. This is a positive sign for Delhi Capitals, indicating that the skipper is back in form.”

“We observed that whenever a new bowler came on, Lanning consistently dispatched the initial deliveries for boundaries, capitalizing on bowlers adjusting their lines outside off stump. This strategy bolstered her confidence throughout the innings."

Mithali also commended Annabel for her impressive 41 and crucial contribution in guiding DC to victory. “She played a supportive role alongside her captain, Meg Lanning, especially after Delhi Capitals made a strong start in the powerplay but lost Jemimah Rodrigues without increasing the score.”

“That partnership was essential in stabilizing the innings, and her 40-run collaboration with Marizanne Kapp was equally crucial. It was vital for Sutherland to step up and make a substantial contribution with the bat.”

Mithali further praised Marizanne for her composure and for leading the team to victory. "She correctly mentioned at the presentation that as an all-rounder, if you have a challenging day with the ball, you always have the chance to make an impact with the bat.”

“That’s precisely what she accomplished. With Sutherland well-set at the other end, Kapp found her rhythm, executed some excellent shots in front of the wicket, forged a solid partnership, and ultimately steered her team to triumph."

Mithali also underscored the enhanced dynamics of the partnership between Meg and Shafali Verma, which was pivotal in DC climbing to second place in the points table. "The key difference in their partnership compared to the previous match was their capacity to sustain momentum.”

“After every boundary, they followed up with either another boundary or a sprint single, preventing pressure from building due to dot balls. We saw both Shafali and Meg actively seeking singles, ensuring a consistent flow of runs, which made a notable difference."