The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season began in thrilling fashion as defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off the highest-ever successful run chase in the tournament’s history against Gujarat Giants (GG). The monumental chase of 202 runs was spearheaded by an extraordinary partnership between Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja, ensuring a resounding victory with nine balls to spare.
A Chase for the Ages
Chasing a mammoth total of 202 runs, RCB found themselves in a challenging position. With the required run rate hovering around 12 runs per over, their hopes of victory appeared slim. However, a sensational partnership between wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh and all-rounder Kanika Ahuja changed the course of the match. The duo stitched together a breathtaking 93-run stand off just 37 balls, showcasing remarkable composure and power-hitting prowess.
Richa Ghosh, in particular, delivered a masterclass in finishing, smashing 64 runs off just 27 balls, including four sixes and seven boundaries. Her innings not only sealed the win for RCB but also drew comparisons with legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni, who was renowned for his ability to chase down big totals under pressure.
Social Media Buzz: Fans Hail Richa Ghosh as Dhoni’s Successor
Richa’s incredible knock sent social media into a frenzy, with fans lauding her ability to handle pressure and finish games in Dhoni-esque style.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Richa Ghosh just did a Dhoni… for RCB.” Another commented, “Richa Ghosh is the mirror image of MS Dhoni.” Her impressive WPL statistics—an average of 36 and a strike rate of 145—further solidified her reputation as a premier finisher in women’s cricket.
Interestingly, both Richa and Dhoni hail from eastern India—Richa from Siliguri, West Bengal, and Dhoni from Ranchi, Jharkhand. Their ability to clear the boundary with ease and maintain composure in high-pressure situations has earned Richa a reputation similar to that of the former Indian captain.
Turning Point: Richa Ghosh’s Blitzkrieg
The match took a dramatic turn when Gujarat Giants’ Simran Shaikh dropped Richa on her very first ball. At that stage, she had only managed 15 runs off 12 balls. However, once she settled in, Richa unleashed a flurry of shots, dispatching bowlers to all corners of the ground. Her fearless approach and aggressive stroke play ensured RCB stayed ahead of the required run rate.
Complementing her innings, Kanika Ahuja played a crucial supporting role, scoring 30 runs off just 13 balls. Their partnership, which boasted a run rate of 15.08 runs per over, became the second-fastest 50-plus stand in WPL history. The duo’s heroics ensured that RCB crossed the finish line with ease, handing them an emphatic win in their season opener.
Gujarat Giants’ Batting Brilliance Falls Short
Earlier in the match, Gujarat Giants set the stage with a dominant batting display. Skipper Ashleigh Gardner led from the front, smashing a breathtaking 79 off just 37 balls. Her explosive innings, laced with powerful shots, helped Gujarat post a formidable total of 201/4 in 20 overs.
Contributions from the top order, including a steady start by the openers, set the platform for Gardner’s assault. However, despite their stellar performance with the bat, Gujarat’s bowling unit failed to defend the massive target against RCB’s relentless pursuit.
Ellyse Perry Lays the Foundation
RCB’s chase began with a solid contribution from Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry, who played a responsible knock of 57 runs off 34 balls. Her innings kept RCB in contention early on, but her dismissal left the team needing 93 runs from the last few overs.
That’s when Richa and Kanika stepped up, shifting gears and dismantling Gujarat’s bowling attack with surgical precision. The duo’s counterattack ensured RCB’s successful chase, marking it as the highest-ever run chase in WPL history.
Looking Ahead: RCB’s Next Challenge
With a dream start to their title defense, RCB will now shift their focus to their next fixture against Delhi Capitals on February 17. The team, buoyed by their record-breaking win, will aim to continue their dominant form in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Giants will look to bounce back from their opening defeat. Despite their batting brilliance, their bowling attack will need to regroup and come up with better strategies to prevent future collapses.
Conclusion: A Historic Start to WPL 2025
The opening match of WPL 2025 delivered an electrifying contest, setting the tone for an action-packed season. RCB’s stunning run chase, powered by Richa Ghosh’s match-winning innings, has already made this edition of the tournament one to remember.
As WPL 2025 progresses, cricket fans can expect more thrilling encounters, remarkable performances, and rising stars making their mark on the biggest stage of women’s cricket. If the first game is any indication, this season promises to be one for the history books.
