Heather Knight to Smriti Mandhana: Top performers for RCB against DC

The Royal Challengers Bangalore women had a bit of a tentative start to their WPL campaign as they were defeated by the Delhi Capitals, who were excellent with bat and ball. There weren’t many displays that would really instil the loudest of hopes in the RCB fans but once again, a few stood out and they were a treat to watch.

Here are the top three performances for RCB in the WPL opener:

Heather Knight – 2/40 and 34 (21b)

An instrumental figure in putting a stop to the Capitals’ opening partnership charge, Heather Knight brought about RCB’s first wicket in the 15th over and then followed it up by removing the dangerous Shafali Verma two balls later. With the bat, Knight smoked two stunning sixes, one down the ground and the other well over the covers en route a very commendable 21-ball 34. 

Smriti Mandhana – 35 (23b)

RCB captain Smriti Mandhana got off to a terrific start with a few boundaries and a six over long off in Marizanne Kapp’s over that helped her side grab the impetus. Although her stay lasted only 23 balls, it comprised a knock that looked quite fluent with some sumptuous strokes on offer.

Ellyse Perry and Megan Schutt – 30 (19b) and 31* (19b) respectively

Ellyse Perry displayed her skill with the bat, scoring some boundaries that were a treat for sore eyes. The Australian all-rounder essayed a top 19-ball 31 that kept RCB well in the game before she chopped a ball onto her stumps. Megan Schutt too proved that she can wield the willow to good effect, giving company to Knight towards the end and also finishing with five fours to her name at a strike rate of 157.89.