Sat Feb 15 12:11:57 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru Pulls Off Stunning Chase in Women’s T20 League Opener

**Vadodara, India** – Bengaluru pulled off a thrilling six-wicket victory over Gujarat in the opening match of the 2025 Women’s T20 League, chasing down a record-breaking 202 runs with nine balls to spare. The match, played at Vadodara, saw a dramatic turnaround in the final overs, highlighting Bengaluru’s superior finishing power.

Gujarat, batting first, posted a formidable total thanks to half-centuries from Beth Mooney and captain Ash Gardner (79* off 37). Deandra Dottin also contributed a valuable cameo. Despite economical bowling spells from Renuka Singh Thakur and Kanika Ahuja, Bengaluru faced an uphill battle after losing early wickets, including captain Smriti Mandhana.

However, a crucial partnership between Ellyse Perry and Raghvi Bist steadied the innings. Perry, despite being dropped, scored a half-century before being dismissed. The turning point came when Richa Ghosh, dropped on zero, unleashed a sensational display of power hitting. Along with Kanika Ahuja (30* off 13), Ghosh orchestrated a breathtaking finish, smashing 39 runs in the final two overs. Ghosh’s unbeaten 50 off just 23 balls was instrumental in the victory, marking the highest successful run chase in the history of the Women’s T20 League.

Ghosh attributed her success to pre-match practice and a calm approach, stating that she and Ahuja focused on neutralizing the situation. Mandhana praised Ghosh’s innings and the team’s overall performance, highlighting the middle-order’s hitting prowess and the contributions of substitute players.

Gardner, while acknowledging Gujarat’s strong batting performance and individual contributions like Dottin’s hitting, expressed disappointment over dropped catches and the inability to capitalise on Bengaluru’s early struggles. She cited the dew as a factor but refused to use it as an excuse.

The match showcased both brilliant batting and the crucial impact of dropped catches, highlighting the fine margins in high-pressure T20 cricket. The next match will see Mumbai face Delhi at the same venue on Saturday at 7:30 pm IST.

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