The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season began with a thrilling contest, as defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off the highest ever successful run chase in the tournament’s history against Gujarat Giants. Chasing a daunting 202, RCB looked in trouble before a breathtaking partnership between Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja turned the game on its head. Their explosive stand of 93 runs off just 37 balls propelled RCB to victory with more than an over to spare.
Richa Ghosh stole the show with a stunning 64 off just 27 deliveries, lighting up the stadium with 4 sixes and 7 boundaries. Her fearless approach under pressure and ability to finish games drew immediate comparisons to legendary Indian wicketkeeper MS Dhoni by fans. The similarities are striking — not just in their finishing prowess but also in their backgrounds. Both the players come from eastern India, with Richa hailing from Siliguri, West Bengal, and MS Dhoni from Ranchi, Jharkhand.
Here is how fans reacted:
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The young batter’s innings could have ended before it truly began, as she was dropped on her very first ball by Gujarat’s Simran Shaikh. Initially struggling to find her rhythm, she had only 15 runs from her first 12 deliveries. However, once she settled in, there was no stopping. Unleashing a flurry of aggressive strokes, she ensured RCB crossed the finish line with ease, completing the chase with 9 balls to spare.
RCB’s successful pursuit had been set up earlier by Australian star Ellyse Perry, who played a vital role with a well-paced 57 off 34 balls. Despite her efforts, RCB still needed 93 runs when she departed. That was when Richa and Kanika took charge. Kanika contributed a rapid 30 off 13 balls, striking four boundaries and complementing Richa’s fireworks. Their partnership, scored at an astonishing rate of over 15 runs per over, became the second fastest 50-plus stand in the WPL history.
Earlier in the match, Gujarat Giants had posted an imposing 201, courtesy of a captain’s knock from Ashleigh Gardner, who smashed 79 off 37 balls. Despite the formidable total, RCB’s batters rose to the occasion, ensuring their title defense began on the perfect note.
At just 21, Richa had already made an impact in the WPL 2024, scoring 257 runs at a strike rate of 142. If this opening game is any indication, she seems poised for an even bigger season this time around. With this statement victory, RCB now sets its sights on their next challenge against Delhi Capitals on February 17.
