RCB Makes History With Record Chase Against Gujarat Giants in WPL 2025 Opener
In a thrilling start to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved a remarkable feat by successfully chasing down a target of 202 runs against the Gujarat Giants. This match, held on February 14, 2025, at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, not only marked the beginning of the season but also set a new record for the highest successful run chase in WPL history.
Key Takeaways
- RCB chased down 202 runs, the highest in WPL history, with 9 balls to spare.
- Richa Ghosh scored an unbeaten 64 off 27 balls, earning the Player of the Match award.
- Ellyse Perry contributed significantly with 57 runs off 34 balls.
- Ashleigh Gardner led the Giants with a stellar 79 runs but could not secure a win.
Match Overview
The Gujarat Giants won the toss and opted to bat first, setting a formidable target of 201 runs. Their innings was anchored by captain Ashleigh Gardner, who scored a blistering 79 runs off just 37 balls, including 8 sixes. Beth Mooney also played a crucial role, contributing 56 runs off 42 balls. The Giants finished their innings at 201 for 5, marking their highest score in WPL history.
RCB’s bowling attack was led by Renuka Singh, who took 2 wickets for 25 runs, while Georgia Wareham and VJ Joshitha struggled, conceding 93 runs in their combined 8 overs.
RCB’s Record Chase
In response, RCB faced early setbacks, losing both openers, Smriti Mandhana and Danni Wyatt-Hodge, to Gardner in her first over. However, Ellyse Perry and Raghvi Bist steadied the innings with an 86-run partnership for the third wicket. Perry’s aggressive batting saw her reach a half-century in just 27 balls.
As the chase progressed, Richa Ghosh entered the fray and turned the game around with her explosive batting. She formed an unbroken partnership of 93 runs with Kanika Ahuja, who scored 30 off 13 balls. Ghosh’s innings included 7 fours and 4 sixes, and she reached her fifty in just 23 balls.
Match Statistics
| Team | Innings Score | Top Scorer | Wickets Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat Giants | 201/5 | Ashleigh Gardner 79 | Renuka Singh 2/25 |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 202/4 | Richa Ghosh 64* | Ashleigh Gardner 2/33 |
Conclusion
RCB’s victory not only sets a high bar for the rest of the tournament but also showcases the depth and talent within their squad. With this historic win, they have sent a strong message to their competitors in the WPL 2025. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling encounters and record-breaking performances.
Sources
- WPL 2025, GG vs RCB: Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry help RCB thrash Gujarat Giants with historic run-chase – India Today, India Today.
- WPL 2025 season opener rewrites record books as RCB thrash Gujarat Giants, MSN.
- Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh help RCB climb Mount Everest, Mandhana’s side pulls off biggest run chase in WPL history, MSN.
- RCB Women beat GG Women, RCB Women won by 6 wickets (with 9 balls remaining), ESPNcricinfo.
- Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Highlights, WPL 2025: Richa Ghosh Fires RCB To Sensational 6-Wicket Win Over GG | Cricket News, NDTV Sports.