WPL 2025: With just one league-stage match remaining in their WPL 2025 campaign, the JSW and GMR co-owned Delhi Capitals are gearing up for a crucial encounter against Gujarat Giants on Friday at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. Having already secured a playoff spot, DC will now push for a direct entry into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 final for the third consecutive season.
Batty: “The job isn’t done yet”
On the eve of the match, Head Coach Jonathan Batty emphasized the importance of finishing strong. “It’s one of the great things about this five-team tournament that the sides are really well-balanced. We got that playoffs qualification which was the first tick in the box. But the job isn’t done yet. We are keeping our focus on our game against Gujarat Giants on Friday night, which sort of leaves our fate in our own hands,” he stated.
Delhi Capitals currently lead the WPL 2025 points table and are looking to solidify their top position with a win. If they finish first, they will directly qualify for the final, avoiding the eliminator match.
Fatigue and recovery: Managing the squad
Delhi Capitals played two back-to-back matches last week, taking on Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in successive nights before heading into a short break. Reflecting on the demanding schedule, Batty said, “We were very front-loaded with our games, especially during the Bengaluru leg. Players’ workload is something that we have to take care of and focus on not getting injured. It’s really nice to have a few days of rest and recovery to recharge, re-energize and then have a couple of really heavy training sessions leading into our last group game on Friday night.”
Youngster N Sree Charani earns praise
Batty also reserved special praise for N Sree Charani, who impressed on her debut against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, picking up two crucial wickets. “We had our eyes on her since last season when our scouts flagged her to us. She has been hugely impressive from when we arrived in Pune for the pre-season camp, and it’s good to see the kind of performance she put up on her debut. She’s always got a smile on her face,” the English coach said.
Gujarat Giants pose a strong challenge
Delhi Capitals’ final league-stage opponents, Gujarat Giants, are coming off a dominant victory over UP Warriorz and currently sit second on the points table. The game is crucial for both teams as Gujarat will also be pushing for a top finish.
Speaking about the challenge, Batty acknowledged the strength of the Giants: “Gujarat Giants are incredibly strong. They have got a wonderful batting line-up, and restricting their batters is going to be the key to the game.”
What’s next?
A win against Gujarat Giants would confirm Delhi Capitals’ direct spot in the final, while a loss might push them into the eliminator match. With the team determined to repeat their WPL 2023 runners-up finish, all eyes will be on their performance in this crucial encounter.
