The thrilling Women’s Premier League (WPL) clash between UP Warriorz and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Monday night silenced critics who doubt the excitement of women’s cricket. The match had everything — new records, a historic first-ever super over finish in the WPL, and an upset victory.
UP Warriorz, who were considered underdogs under new captain Deepti Sharma, triumphed over defending champions and crowd favorites, Smriti Mandhana-led RCB, in a nerve-wracking super over.
Put in to bat by UP Warriorz, RCB got off to a rocky start with their captain Smriti Mandhana dismissed for a mere 6 runs. However, Danielle Wyatt and Ellyse Perry stitched together a remarkable second-wicket partnership, taking RCB to a solid total of 180/5. Wyatt’s classy 57 and Perry’s outstanding 90 not only steadied the innings but also saw Perry surpass her former Australian captain to become the highest run-scorer in WPL history. For UP Warriorz, Tahlia McGrath, C. Henry, and skipper Deepti Sharma took one wicket each.
In response, UP Warriorz had a steady start and managed to equal RCB’s score, taking the game to the first-ever super over in WPL history. Sophie Ecclestone (33), Shweta Sehrawat (31), and Deepti Sharma (25) contributed crucial runs in the chase.
In the super over, UP Warriorz batted first and posted 8/1, with C. Henry scoring 4(3) while Grace Harris and Ecclestone chipped in with a run each. When it was RCB’s turn to bat, Mandhana and hard-hitter Richa Ghosh stepped in. However, it was Deepti Sharma’s smart decision to hand the ball to Ecclestone that proved decisive. Ecclestone bowled a brilliant over, conceding just 4 runs and effectively crushing RCB’s hopes. For her all-around performance, Ecclestone was named Player of the Match.
This marked RCB’s second defeat, though they remain tied at 4 points with Mumbai Indians, UP Warriorz, and Delhi Capitals, holding onto the top spot thanks to a superior Net Run Rate.
Next up, Delhi Capitals will face Gujarat Giants, who are currently at the bottom of the table with just 2 points, on Tuesday.