Can Shafali Verma's 62 Propel Delhi Capitals to Victory Against RCB?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shafali Verma shines with a solid 62 runs.
- Delhi Capitals sets a competitive total of 166.
- Strong bowling performance from RCB.
- Late contributions from Hamilton and Rana were crucial.
- The match highlights the emergence of women's cricket in India.
Navi Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) Shafali Verma showcased her remarkable batting skills by scoring 62 runs off 41 balls, while Lucy Hamilton and Sneh Rana made valuable contributions, helping Delhi Capitals reach a challenging total of 166 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during the 11th match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy.
At one stage, DC appeared to be in trouble, struggling to cross the 100-run mark. However, a combination of aggressive batting and crucial lower-order contributions turned the tide.
After winning the toss, Smriti Mandhana opted to bowl first, and RCB started strongly. Lauren Bell made a stunning impact by dismissing Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt in the very first over, putting DC in a precarious position. The situation further deteriorated when Sayali Satghare, making her WPL debut in place of Ellyse Perry, took two wickets in consecutive deliveries, removing Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp. With wickets falling rapidly, DC faced significant challenges during the powerplay and middle overs.
Verma ignited the innings with her aggressive play, forming a pivotal 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Niki Prasad, stabilizing the innings and keeping the score ticking. She later collaborated with Sneh Rana to form a crucial 34-run partnership for the seventh wicket, ensuring that DC maintained their momentum. Verma's innings culminated in her seventh WPL half-century.
Lucy Hamilton provided a much-needed boost at the end with a swift 36 runs off 19 balls, enabling DC to surpass the 150-run mark and set a competitive target. Ultimately, DC was bowled out on the final delivery of the innings.
For RCB, Lauren Bell and Sayali Satghare were impressive, each taking three wickets. Prema Rawat claimed two wickets, and Nadine de Klerk added one. RCB now requires 167 runs to remain unbeaten this season and achieve their fourth victory, with the pitch likely to continue favoring bowlers.
Brief scores: Delhi Capitals 166/10 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 62, Lucy Hamilton 36; Lauren Bell 3-26, Sayali Satghare 3-27) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.