Match Info:
- Match: RCBW vs UPW, 9th Match, Women’s Premier League 2025
- Date: Monday, February 24, 2025
- Time: 11:00 PM (IST)
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Team Form:
RCB Women (Royal Challengers Bangalore Women):
- Recent Performance: W W W W W
RCB Women are on an absolute roll with five consecutive wins. Their dominant performances so far have shown that they are one of the strongest teams in this edition of the Women’s Premier League. They have a solid mix of experienced internationals and promising young talent, which makes them a formidable side.
UPW Women (Uttar Pradesh Warriors Women):
- Recent Performance: L W L L L
UPW Women have struggled with inconsistency, having only one win in their last five matches. Their batting and bowling units have had flashes of brilliance, but they’ve yet to put together a complete performance. They will need to find a way to combat RCBW’s winning form to stay competitive in this match.
Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches):
- RCB Women won by 23 runs
- RCB Women won by 2 runs
- RCB Women won by 5 wickets (with 12 balls remaining)
- UPW Women won by 10 wickets (with 42 balls remaining)
In their recent encounters, RCB Women have dominated the head-to-head battle, winning three out of four meetings, with one win for UPW. This gives RCB a psychological advantage heading into this match, having beaten UPW in close contests recently.
Key Players to Watch:
RCB Women:
- Smriti Mandhana (Opening Batter): One of the top batters in the world, Mandhana’s consistency at the top of the order has been vital for RCB’s success. She has the ability to turn games in her side’s favor with her attacking style of play.
- Ellyse Perry (Allrounder): Perry brings both experience and versatility, contributing with both the bat and ball. Her allround abilities will be key in providing balance to the RCB lineup.
- Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper Batter): Known for her explosive batting, Ghosh can change the course of the game in the final overs. Her wicketkeeping also adds to RCB’s overall strength.
- Heather Graham (Allrounder): Another powerful allrounder, Graham can deliver both with bat and ball, making her a key player for RCB in pressure situations.
UPW Women:
- Sophie Ecclestone (Bowler): One of the world’s best bowlers, Ecclestone can turn a game with her accurate left-arm spin. She will be crucial in keeping RCB’s strong batting lineup in check.
- Deepti Sharma (Allrounder): A proven allrounder, Deepti’s skills with the bat and ball will be essential for UPW’s chances. She can be a game-changer in the middle overs with her bowling.
- Grace Harris (Allrounder): Known for her explosive batting, Harris can bring firepower to the middle order. Her aggressive approach is something RCB will have to manage carefully.
- Tahlia McGrath (Allrounder): McGrath’s ability to bowl tight overs and score vital runs will be crucial in UPW’s attempt to get back into winning form.
Match Prediction:
Based on recent form, RCB Women appear to be the stronger side heading into this match. Their winning streak and the presence of in-form players like Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry make them the favorites for this encounter. However, UPW Women can’t be taken lightly, as they have the potential to spring a surprise, especially with their allrounders like Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma.
That said, RCB’s momentum, balanced team, and recent head-to-head record give them the edge. Expect a competitive match, but RCB is likely to continue their winning streak with a RCB Women victory by 15-25 runs or 5 wickets.
Final Thoughts:
- RCBW will look to keep their momentum intact, especially with the firepower they have in their batting lineup.
- UPW will need to rely on their star players like Ecclestone, Harris, and Sharma to turn things around.
- RCB’s form and depth give them a clear edge, but UPW could surprise with a well-timed performance.
