Richa Ghosh’s Blazing 64 Stuns Gujarat Giants, Ellyse Perry Calls It ‘A Must-Watch Knock’*
RCB kickstarts WPL 2025 with a dominant win – Richa Ghosh put on a stunning display of power-hitting as she smashed an unbeaten 64 off just 26 balls, leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a six-wicket victory over Gujarat Giants (GG) in the opening match of WPL 2025. Playing at BCA Stadium, Vadodara, Richa’s explosive knock turned the game around in RCB’s favor, ensuring they began their title defense in style.
The highlight of her innings? A game-changing 16th over, where she took 23 runs off GG skipper Ashleigh Gardner, swinging the momentum completely in RCB’s favor.
Ellyse Perry Showers Praise on Richa Ghosh – RCB’s experienced all-rounder Ellyse Perry was full of praise for Richa’s innings, calling it a special knock that was “a joy to watch.” In a video posted on the tournament’s official X account, Perry said, “Richa played with so much calmness and confidence. It was incredible to watch. Every time she got the ball in her slot, it felt like she would send it to the boundary—and she did it so often! The way she finished the game was simply brilliant.”
Kanika Ahuja’s Impactful Cameo – It wasn’t just Richa who stole the show. Kanika Ahuja also played a crucial role, smashing an unbeaten 30 off just 13 balls. Together, Richa and Kanika added 93 runs in just 37 balls for the fifth wicket, completely dismantling GG’s bowling attack. Speaking about Kanika, Perry added, “It was fantastic to see Kanika back in action. She missed last season due to injury, and to come back like this and make an immediate impact for the team—it was just great.”
Perry Sets the Foundation, But A Rare Drop Shocks Fans – Before Richa’s fireworks, Ellyse Perry had set the tone with a solid 57, ensuring RCB had a strong base to chase Gujarat’s target of 202. However, one unexpected moment was Perry dropping a catch of Deandra Dottin, a rare mistake from the seasoned cricketer. Reflecting on the moment, she said, “Sometimes, these things happen. No one ever wants to drop a catch, but there’s always another chance to contribute in a different way.”
Big Run-Chases Will Be Common in WPL 2025, Says Perry – With RCB comfortably chasing 202, Perry believes that high-scoring run-chases will be a regular sight this season. – “This is just the first of many big totals we’ll see being chased this year,” she said. “The conditions favored teams batting second, and we made the most of it. Every team in this tournament is playing entertaining cricket, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”
RCB’s Next Match – A Clash Against Delhi Capitals – After their emphatic win, RCB will now face Delhi Capitals on February 17 in Vadodara. With Richa Ghosh and Kanika Ahuja in top form, fans can expect another exciting contest. One thing is clear—WPL 2025 has started with a bang, and RCB looks ready to dominate!
