Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues has been penalised for a slow over rate following her team's narrow defeat against Gujarat Giants in a gripping Women's Premier League encounter in Vadodara. With it being her first breach of the season under the tournament's code of conduct, Jemimah was fined ₹12 lakh.
The match turned out to be a nerve-wracking contest, with Gujarat managing to defend a modest total and clinch victory by just three runs. Sophie Devine played a decisive role with the ball, returning figures of 4 for 37, while Rajeshwari Gayakwad's spell of 3 for 20 further tightened Gujarat's grip on the game. Delhi eventually finished on 171 for eight, falling agonisingly short of the 175-run target.
The final over summed up the drama
of the evening. With nine runs required, Devine struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Sneh Rana and Niki Prasad, effectively ending Delhi's hopes of pulling off a late comeback.
Earlier, Gujarat's innings was anchored by Beth Mooney, who compiled a steady 58 off 46 balls. Anushka Sharma provided valuable support with a quick 39 off 25 deliveries, helping the Giants reach a competitive 174 for nine.
Delhi's chase began positively, with Shafali Verma offering early momentum. However, her aggressive innings ended when she was caught at long-on off Gayakwad's bowling. Lizelle Lee struggled to accelerate and departed soon after, falling to Devine after scoring 11 off 20 balls.
As the chase progressed, Gujarat's bowlers maintained pressure, with Tanuja Kanwar and Devine delivering disciplined spells. Jemimah Rodrigues and Laura Wolvaardt found it difficult to shift gears, causing the required run rate to climb steadily. Jemimah eventually perished while attempting an audacious scoop shot, and Marizanne Kapp was dismissed shortly after, further denting Delhi's chances.
Despite a spirited fightback, Delhi could not cross the line. The Capitals will now look to bounce back when they face UP Warriorz on February 1 in Vadodara, in what shapes up to be a crucial encounter for their campaign.
