Jemimah Rodrigues delivered another captain’s performance under pressure as Delhi Capitals advanced to the tournament final for the fourth consecutive time with a convincing seven-wicket win over Gujarat Giants.
Despite early wickets threatening to slow their chase, Rodrigues’ composed yet aggressive innings ensured Delhi remained in control.
Chasing 169, Delhi Capitals started explosively with Lizelle Lee and Shafali Verma attacking from the outset. The pair amassed 75 runs in the powerplay, immediately putting Gujarat’s bowlers under pressure. Lee led the charge, punishing loose deliveries and striking boundaries freely during her brisk 43 off 24 balls, while Shafali contributed with a quick 31. Their 89-run opening stand placed Delhi in a commanding
position.
Gujarat briefly sensed an opening when both openers departed in quick succession. Skipper Jemimah Rodrigues then stepped in to steady the innings. Balancing caution with aggression, Rodrigues ensured the scoring remained consistent. She rotated strike cleverly, forcing the field to spread, before attacking the spinners with crisp strokeplay.
Rodrigues’ innings perfectly balanced control and intent. Her 41 off just 23 balls, including four boundaries and a six, eliminated any remaining pressure from the chase. By the time she was dismissed in the 15th over with Delhi on 160, the result was almost certain. Laura Wolvaardt calmly remained unbeaten on 32, while Marizanne Kapp added the finishing touches as Delhi reached the target with 26 balls remaining.
Earlier, Gujarat Giants had posted 168/7, largely thanks to Beth Mooney’s composed unbeaten 62. After early wickets put them under pressure, Mooney rebuilt alongside Georgia Wareham in a crucial middle-overs partnership. Late cameos pushed the total to a competitive level, but Delhi’s disciplined bowling, led by Chinelle Henry’s three wickets, prevented a bigger finish.
Ultimately, Delhi’s strong batting depth, led by Rodrigues’ decisive knock, proved too much for Gujarat. The Capitals now move into the final, brimming with confidence, where they will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a repeat of 2024 season’s title clash.
