Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Winner of the Eliminator to Face RCB in the Final on February 5 in Vadodara
The Eliminator match of the fourth season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) is being played between Gujarat Giants (GG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. In this crucial knockout clash, Delhi Capitals won the toss and decided to bat first. With a place in the final at stake, the match is a do-or-die contest for both teams.
Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues said after the toss that the team wanted to stick with the winning combination and maintain momentum from the previous game. As a result, Delhi have made no changes to their playing XI. The team is relying heavily on its strong batting order and all-round depth. Openers and top-order batters like Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt and wicketkeeper Lizelle Lee will be key with the bat, while the responsibility of controlling the game with both bat and ball will rest on Marizanne Kapp, Sneh Rana and Shinel Henry.
Gujarat Giants have also opted to go in unchanged for the Eliminator. Led by captain Ashleigh Gardner, Gujarat appear to be a well-balanced side. The team boasts experienced international players such as Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine, both of whom are known for performing under pressure in big matches. Their presence at the top of the order gives Gujarat a strong foundation. In the bowling department, Renuka Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Tanuja Kanwar will play a crucial role in restricting Delhi and taking early wickets.
This match holds added significance as the winner will qualify for the WPL final, scheduled to be played on February 5 in Vadodara against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). With the title on the line, both teams are expected to give their best on the field. Fans can expect a high-intensity and closely fought contest in this Eliminator, as both sides look to keep their championship hopes alive.
Playing XIs
Gujarat Giants:
Beth Mooney (wicketkeeper), Sophie Devine, Anushka Sharma, Ashleigh Gardner (captain), Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kanika Ahuja, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh.
Delhi Capitals:
Lizelle Lee (wicketkeeper), Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues (captain), Marizanne Kapp, Shinel Henry, Niki Prasad, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Nandini Sharma, Shree Charani.