Thu Feb 27 15:30:00 UTC 2025: **Gujarat Giants Thrash Royal Challengers Bangalore in WPL Match**
**Mumbai, India** – Gujarat Giants secured a convincing six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on Day 2, ending their losing streak and leaving RCB reeling after their third consecutive defeat. Chasing a modest total, the Giants achieved the target with 21 balls to spare.
Ash Gardner was named Player of the Match, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. Her 50 off 28 balls spearheaded the chase, while her bowling performance, alongside strong contributions from Tanuja Kanwar and Kashvee, restricted RCB to a low score. Gardner praised her team’s bowling attack and the freedom their low-scoring chase allowed them to play positively. She also highlighted the team’s improved powerplay batting compared to previous matches.
RCB captain Smriti Mandhana attributed their loss to a poor powerplay performance and a failure to read the pitch conditions. She expressed disappointment with the overall team performance across all three departments – batting, bowling, and fielding – acknowledging that this loss will be particularly painful. Mandhana noted the team’s need to improve consistently across all aspects of the game.
Despite the loss, RCB remains third in the points table, tied with Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz on four points. The Gujarat Giants, however, will be buoyed by their improved net run rate. The match highlights the growing competitiveness in the WPL and the unpredictable nature of the tournament. The next match will see Delhi Capitals face Mumbai Indians.
First Piper 