Meg Lanning Shines When It Matters Most, Says Mithali Raj

Bengaluru, March 1 (NationPress) Following the remarkable nine-wicket triumph of Delhi Capitals over Mumbai Indians in the WPL 2025 encounter on Friday, former Indian captain Mithali Raj commended the victorious team leader Meg Lanning, who delivered a stellar unbeaten innings of 60 runs from 49 balls, featuring nine boundaries, stating that her performance arrived at a pivotal moment for the franchise.

Choosing to bowl first, Delhi effectively limited Mumbai to a mere total of 123/9 in 20 overs, with Jess Jonassen and Minnu Mani each taking three wickets.

In response, Lanning spearheaded the innings alongside opener Shafali Verma, establishing a solid opening partnership of 85 runs, laying a firm foundation for the chase. Amanjot Kaur took the only wicket for Delhi, dismissing Shafali at 43 runs. Jemmimah Rodrigues and Lanning then propelled the team to a decisive victory with 33 balls remaining.

"A big player consistently rises to the occasion in critical matches, and today, in her dual role as captain and player, Meg Lanning demonstrated just that. She recognized the importance of this match for Delhi Capitals and played accordingly. The execution of her shots, particularly the stunning straight drive and on-drive, highlighted her class," Mithali remarked on Amul Cricket Live on JioHotstar.

"She is gradually regaining her form, which is a significant positive for Delhi Capitals. This also enables Shafali Verma to play with greater freedom, knowing her captain is steering the innings. Having a leader like Meg Lanning in the middle instills tremendous confidence in the team. Over time, she and Shafali have developed an understanding of each other’s strengths, facilitating effective partnerships. At one point, when Shabnim Ismail bowled her fourth over, we observed Meg approach Shafali and advise her against playing reckless shots, stressing the need to navigate this last over with care. That level of leadership is priceless," she continued.

Delhi also secured a win against Harmanpreet Kaur-led Mumbai in their season opener.

Commenting on the formidable opening duo of Lanning and Shafali, Mithali stated, "Whenever Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma form a partnership exceeding 50 runs, the team's prospects of winning improve significantly. The winning percentage for Delhi Capitals escalates with their contributions. Today, while chasing a target of 124, we witnessed Shafali Verma adopting a more measured approach initially, which is atypical for her aggressive style. There was extensive dialogue between her and Meg Lanning, particularly while facing Shabnim Ismail. However, once she settled into her rhythm, and Meg Lanning joined in, it was a pleasure to observe them score from both ends. It was a thoroughly convincing victory for Delhi Capitals.

"As batters, they complement one another perfectly, underscoring how heavily the team relies on them to provide a robust start. Throughout all three seasons, whenever they have failed to build a partnership, Delhi Capitals have faced challenges, exposing the middle order. Conversely, whenever they have succeeded in forming a partnership, the middle order rarely comes into play, which speaks volumes about their contribution to the team’s success," she elaborated.

With eight points from six matches, Delhi has ascended to the top of the standings and will next face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday.

"With a full crowd at Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB will enter this match following a disappointing loss—one of their lowest scores recorded at this venue. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals will arrive with momentum from a comprehensive win. These are two teams in contrasting forms, and RCB has a considerable task ahead if they wish to compete with Delhi Capitals," Mithali concluded.