Delhi Capitals asserted their dominance in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Gujarat Giants in the final league match, securing their place in the ultimate showdown.
The match kicked off with an electrifying performance from Marizanne Kapp, who wreaked havoc on the Giants' batting lineup in the opening overs, claiming three crucial wickets. Partnering with Jess Jonassen, they further dismantled the Giants, leaving them struggling at 16 for 3 within the first five overs.
Minnu Mani, stepping in for Titas Sadhu, made a significant impact with two quick wickets, leaving the Giants reeling at 48 for 5 halfway through their innings. Despite a brief resistance from Bharti Fulmali and Kathryn Bryce, who put up a commendable 68-run partnership, the Giants failed to regain momentum. Shikha Pandey's late surge with two swift wickets ensured Capitals maintained control, limiting the Giants to a modest total of 126 runs in 20 overs.
In pursuit of 127 for victory, Delhi Capitals wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma provided a blistering start, racing to 31 without loss in just three overs. Although Lanning fell victim to a run-out, Shafali continued her onslaught, displaying exquisite strokeplay to notch up an impressive half-century.
Supported by Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali drove Capitals towards victory with relentless aggression. Despite Shafali's departure after a stellar 71 off 37 balls, Rodrigues steered the team to victory with a well-placed boundary through point.
With this commanding win, Delhi Capitals secured the top spot on the table and earned a direct entry into the final showdown. Their dominant performance solidifies their title aspirations, setting the stage for an exciting clash in the championship decider against either Mumbai Indians or Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Giants' quest for a playoff berth will continue into the next season, leaving them with plenty to contemplate as they evaluate their campaign.
Brief score:
Gujarat Giants: 126 for 9 in 20 overs (Bharti Fulmali 42, Kathryn Bryce 28 not out; Minnu Mani 2-9, Marizanne Kapp 2-17, Shikha Pandey 2-23)
Delhi Capitals: 129 for 3 in 13.1 overs (Shafali Verma 71, Jemimah Rodrigues 38*; Tanuja Kanwar 2-20)
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