Smriti’s Fireworks Eclipse Shafali’s Grit in RCB’s Triumph Over DC

By the time spectators settled into their seats at the DY Patil Stadium on Saturday, Delhi Capitals (DC) found themselves in a precarious position, having lost four wickets for just 10 runs. The dugout was filled with an uneasy silence as the team grappled with this early setback.

However, Shafali Verma remained undeterred. She calmly took control of the situation, constructing a determined 62 off 41 balls. Unfortunately, her spirited effort was in vain, as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), led by Smriti Mandhana’s impressive 96 off 61 balls, secured an eight-wicket victory, ending the first phase of the Women’s Premier League on a high note.

As conditions improved, RCB capitalized on dropped catches and comfortably chased DC’s target of 166. Despite losing Grace Harris early, Smriti formed a 142-run partnership for the second wicket with Georgia Voll, who remained unbeaten with 54 runs off 42 balls. Smriti played with composure, judged the deliveries on their merit, yet narrowly missed out on a century, falling just four runs short. Voll’s presence ensured RCB cruised to victory with 10 balls to spare.

Before Smriti’s heroics, Shafali had captivated the audience. Following early breakthroughs by Lauren Bell and Sayali Satghare, which triggered a top-order collapse, Shafali counter-attacked with an array of boundaries. She built crucial partnerships, including a 59-run stand with Niki Prasad for the fifth wicket, and further contributions with Sneh Rana and Lucy Hamilton.

This innings was arguably one of Shafali’s grittiest performances under pressure. Despite a late flurry of wickets, she and debutant Hamilton ensured the Capitals posted a competitive total. After Bell ended Shafali’s innings, Hamilton struck Shreyanka Patil for a couple of sixes and a four.

Though Sayali and Bell reaped early rewards, RCB’s bowlers lost their grip during the middle overs and failed to capitalize. Shreyanka, in particular, struggled, conceding 44 runs in her three overs. Nevertheless, Smriti Mandhana’s leadership ensured that this did not hinder RCB’s success in the end.

Published on Jan 17, 2026.