Sat Feb 15 15:07:48 UTC 2025: ## RCB Chases Down Record WPL Total in Thrilling Opener
**Vadodara, India** – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pulled off a stunning victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 opener, chasing down a mammoth 201-run target set by Gujarat Giants. The win marks the highest ever successful chase in WPL history.
Gujarat Giants, led by Ashleigh Gardner’s explosive 79 off 37 balls (including eight sixes), posted a daunting 201/5. Gardner’s innings included early dismissals of RCB openers Smriti Mandhana and Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
However, RCB’s response was equally breathtaking. Ellyse Perry anchored the chase with a 57-run knock, before a spectacular 93-run partnership between Richa Ghosh (64* off 27) and Kanika Ahuja (30* off 13) sealed the victory with several balls to spare. Ghosh’s innings was punctuated by seven boundaries and four sixes.
Ghosh credited the team’s intense training and match simulations for their ability to handle the pressure and execute their chase. Ahuja, returning after a year-long absence, expressed her delight at contributing to the win.
RCB captain Mandhana praised the middle-order’s exceptional performance, noting the team’s belief in their ability to chase the target despite the challenging conditions and uneven boundaries at the Kotambi Stadium. The win sets a high standard for the rest of the tournament.