Mithali Raj Credits Shafali and Niki for DC's Thrilling Win
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Synopsis
Mithali Raj highlights the pivotal contributions of Shafali Verma and Niki Prasad in Delhi Capitals' thrilling last-ball victory over Mumbai Indians in the WPL. Shafali's explosive start and Niki's composed innings were crucial in chasing down the target successfully.
Key Takeaways
- Shafali Verma's aggressive play set the tone for the match.
- Niki Prasad displayed remarkable composure under pressure.
- The match had intense momentum shifts, making it unpredictable.
- Former players emphasized learning from each other's strategies.
- Critical errors in overs can significantly impact the game.
Vadodara, Feb 16 (NationPress) Former India captain Mithali Raj expressed that the Delhi Capitals dramatic last-ball victory in the WPL match was significantly propelled by the critical innings of Shafali Verma and Niki Prasad.
The Delhi Capitals clinched a two-wicket victory against Mumbai Indians at the BCA Stadium. Mumbai set a total of 164, thanks to Nat Sciver-Brunt's stellar performance (80 not out off 59) and a blistering cameo from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (42 off 22).
Shafali started strong in the run-chase, launching a six and four boundaries in the second over bowled by Saika Ishaque. It became the Shafali show as DC amassed 60 runs during the powerplay.
Discussing the match on Jio Hotstar, Mithali remarked, "What can I say? The intensity of today’s match was astonishing. Last evening's game saw a chase of 201 with significant hits, but today's match was all about the tension. The momentum shifted continuously between the teams, making it impossible to predict the winner until the final ball."
On Niki's performance, Mithali mentioned that the ICC Women’s U-19 World Cup winning captain entered a high-pressure match and handled it with impressive composure.
“The victory of Delhi Capitals was mainly attributed to Shafali Verma's explosive start, but Niki Prasad's essential 35-run innings was just as crucial. Despite wickets falling around her, she provided stability at the crease. This was her first match, and after leading her team to victory in the ICC Women’s U-19 World Cup, she faced a high-pressure situation and managed it with great poise. Even if she felt nervous, she overcame them brilliantly.
"Although we didn’t witness much of it, her innings today showcased maturity beyond her years. She received solid backing from Alice Capsey and Sarah Bryce. Ultimately, as the game boiled down to two runs off two balls, she attempted a big shot, which will come with experience. Her contribution to Delhi Capitals today is monumental," she added.
Reflecting on Shafali's performance, the former captain noted, “Anyone stepping into Shafali Verma's shoes would realize she has never adopted a defensive stance. From the second ball, she started scoring runs and played with her usual flair. That’s her style. The only way to dismiss her today was through strategy, a feeling I understand well.
"At one point, she had ample time and was uncertain where to place the ball. Just before her dismissal, the fielding side adjusted their strategy, bringing mid-on up and pushing deep square leg back since she had found boundaries there. She instinctively aimed to clear mid-on but played into the fielder’s hands, leading to a pivotal wicket.”
Former West Indian cricketer Stacy-Ann King praised Niki Prasad's remarkable innings, stating, "We saw her talent with the India Under-19 team. However, she didn't get much opportunity to bat because of G Trisha and Kamalini, who performed exceptionally. After a shaky start, she played her shots brilliantly."
Stacy-Ann also shared her views on Mumbai Indians’ performance, highlighting a critical error made during the five balls when MI failed to complete their full 20 overs.
“When Harmanpreet spoke, she noted that those five balls where MI didn’t bat the full 20 overs were a critical error. Even scoring a single run during that phase could have altered the outcome. This serves as a moment for them to reevaluate their approach, particularly in their handling of spinners," she concluded.
"Hayley Matthews took key wickets, including Shafali and Sarah, but conceded 15 runs before that. Both teams can glean valuable insights from each other regarding their batting strategies and bowling tactics going forward," the West Indian added.
