Vadodara, Jan 28 (NationPress) Niki Prasad, a prominent player for the Delhi Capitals, expressed that the close three-run loss to the Gujarat Giants will act as a significant learning opportunity for her. The young athlete, aged 20, delivered a bold performance, scoring 47 runs off just 25 balls at the BCA stadium on Tuesday.

Entering the game at a challenging moment with the Capitals struggling at 100 for 6 while chasing a total of 174 runs, Prasad maintained her confidence to turn the match around. “When I came in, we were clearly in a tough spot, but I believed that if I could stay and maintain the momentum, we still had a chance. Once Sneh joined in and started hitting boundaries immediately, it really boosted my confidence, and we discussed keeping up that 12-run-per-over pace,” she shared.

“From the moment I stepped onto the field, I had the conviction that we could win. That over from Sophie Devine, where we managed a couple of boundaries, really energized us, and our strategy became straightforward: keep hitting boundaries, maintain our momentum, and not succumb to the pressure,” Prasad elaborated.

Despite falling short by just three runs, Prasad views this match as a valuable part of her learning journey.

“It’s disappointing not to clinch the win, especially being so close. However, this is a major learning experience for me. I intend to return, train diligently, and ensure that next time I find myself in such a situation, I can lead the team to victory,” she stated.

Discussing her tactics against seasoned bowlers, Prasad noted, “We quickly recognized that the bowlers were delivering slower, shorter balls, so I focused on making good contact, whether in the air or along the ground, to find the gaps. I used my footwork, adjusted my position, and aimed to chip the ball over the fielders because once it hit the ground, it sped away to the boundary.”

Prasad also acknowledged the immense support she receives from her franchise, which greatly enhances her confidence. “It means a lot to know that such a major franchise has placed so much trust in me. Coming into the WPL, I felt assured and was eager for the chance to help secure a victory for the Delhi Capitals. Although it didn’t happen today, I will be prepared when the next opportunity arises,” she added.

The Giants set a total of 174 runs with Beth Mooney contributing 58 runs. In pursuit, the Capitals required just 9 runs in the final over, but Sophie Devine held her composure, delivering an exceptional over that kept Jemimah Rodrigues' team to a total of 171 runs.

The Capitals will face the UP Warriorz in their final league-stage match of the season on Sunday, February 1. Currently, they sit fourth in the points table with three victories from seven matches.