Shafali Verma's Heroics Propel Delhi Capitals Against RCB in WPL Clash

Match Highlights: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Navi Mumbai: In a thrilling Women's Premier League encounter, explosive opener Shafali Verma showcased her talent with a remarkable half-century, leading Delhi Capitals to a total of 166 runs against the league leaders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, on Saturday.

Shafali's innings of 62 runs off 41 balls, featuring five fours and four sixes, was pivotal as she countered a challenging situation after Delhi Capitals found themselves struggling at 74 for 6.

After being put to bat first, Delhi Capitals faced a disastrous start, losing both Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt in the very first over.

Captain Jemimah Rodrigues, along with Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, and Minnu Mani, also fell cheaply, leaving the team in dire straits at 74 for 6 within just 8.1 overs.

Despite the early setbacks, Shafali displayed her aggressive batting style, forming a crucial partnership of 59 runs with Prasad (12), who played a supporting role to keep the innings alive.

Her fifty came with a single off left-arm spinner Radha Yadav, demonstrating her ability to counterattack effectively.

Shafali later added 34 runs with Sneh Rana, who contributed a steady 22 runs before being dismissed by spinner Prerna Rawat in the 14th over.

In a moment of fortune, Shafali was dropped by Gautami Naik in the 16th over, allowing her to continue her innings.

She eventually fell to Lauren Bell (3/26), caught out after a commendable performance.

Towards the end of the innings, Lucy Hamilton made a significant impact with a quickfire 36 runs off 19 balls, boosting Delhi Capitals' total.