RCB Sets Unwanted Record with Lowest Total in WPL History

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced a significant setback on March 30, 2024, as they recorded their lowest total in the history of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). In a match against the Delhi Capitals at the venue in Vadodara, RCB was dismissed for just 109 runs in their allotted 20 overs. This disappointing performance marked RCB’s first defeat of the season after a promising streak of five consecutive victories.

Despite a steady start with a partnership of 36 runs between the openers, RCB’s batting line-up crumbled unexpectedly. Captain Smriti Mandhana managed to score 38 runs, but she was the only player to make a substantial contribution. The next highest scorer was Radha Yadav with 18 runs, highlighting the team’s struggles. The Delhi Capitals’ bowlers delivered an impressive performance, with Nandini Sharma leading the attack and taking three wickets. The Capitals ultimately secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory.

Previous Low Totals in WPL History

RCB’s previous record for the lowest total in the WPL was 125/9, achieved against the Mumbai Indians in a match during the 2023 season in Navi Mumbai. In that game, RCB was well-placed at 59/2 before experiencing a middle-order collapse. Ellyse Perry contributed a valuable 29 runs off 30 balls, while Richa Ghosh’s explosive 29 runs off just 13 balls helped RCB cross the century mark. Despite these efforts, RCB lost to the Mumbai Indians by four wickets with 21 balls remaining.

In another match last season, RCB posted a total of 125/7 while batting first against the Gujarat Giants in Bengaluru. Their innings was bolstered by Kanika Ahuja’s essential 33 runs off 27 balls, with Raghvi Bist and Georgia Wareham also contributing modestly with 22 and 20* runs, respectively. The Gujarat Giants went on to win that match by six wickets.

This latest performance has raised concerns about RCB’s batting depth and resilience as they seek to improve their standings in the WPL. The contrast between their early season success and this recent failure illustrates the unpredictable nature of the tournament. RCB will need to regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks in the rounds ahead.