Vadodara witnessed a Valentine's Day thriller as the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 went into action. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) scripted a historic chase, with a massive target of 202 against the Gujarat Giants with nine balls to spare. The architect of this incredible victory: Richa Ghosh.
The match started with a buzz, the Vadodara crowd eager to witness their first WPL game. The slightly unusual ground dimensions, with varying boundary lengths, were a talking point. But for some players, like Ghosh, boundaries are just targets waiting to be hit. Her innings was full of raw power; in adapting and exploiting the opposition's weaknesses.
RCB's chase got off to a bumpy start. Ellyse Perry steadied the ship with a vital 57 off 34 balls, but the real fireworks were yet to come. When Ghosh walked in, RCB needed a daunting 93 runs from just 46 balls, with six wickets down. The required run rate was soaring, and the pressure was immense. Ghosh initially took her time, scoring 15 off her first 12 deliveries, even surviving a dropped catch early on. She was sizing up the situation, like a musician finding the right note.
Then, everything changed. The 16th over, bowled by Ash Gardner, Gujarat's star player who had earlier smashed a blistering 79 not out and taken key wickets, became the turning point. Before the over, RCB's win probability was a dismal 12.66%. After that it shot up to 72.91%. Ghosh unleashed her fury, smashing Gardner for 23 runs. It was a display of pure batting brilliance, a mix of raw power and delicate touches. She targeted Gardner's bowling, which until then had been economical and impactful. Ghosh's assault was breathtaking. She dispatched Gardner's deliveries to all parts of the ground, showcasing her full repertoire of strokes. Every boundary was a statement, a testament to her skill and confidence. The Giants' fielding faltered under the onslaught, adding to their woes. Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja, who played a crucial supporting role with an unbeaten 30 off 13 balls, forged an unbroken partnership of 93 runs off just 37 balls.
This opening match has set the bar high for the rest of the WPL, promising a season filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.
