WPL 2025: former India captain Mithali Raj shared her thoughts on Shafali Verma’s game-changing innings and her partnership with Jess Jonassen for Delhi Capitals in the TATA Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024.
Shafali’s Maturity in the Middle Overs
Mithali highlighted Shafali’s progress, stating:
“So far, we’ve spoken a lot about the opening partnerships for Delhi Capitals, with over 300-run partnerships. But today, for the first time, Shafali Verma built a 140-run stand with a number three batter—Jess Jonassen. The way she constructed her innings was truly special. She often gets into the 40s during the powerplay but loses her wicket. However, today, she ensured she played into the middle overs, complemented Jess Jonassen at the other end, and saw her team through. This is exactly what we expect from her, and hopefully, she continues doing this in the coming seasons.”
Shafali’s Six-Hitting Prowess & Potential for T20 Centuries
Speaking further on Shafali Verma, Mithali Raj said:
“When Jess Jonassen joined Shafali, her strike rate was actually ahead of Shafali’s, with the number of boundaries she hit. For a long period, Shafali didn’t attempt a big shot, but once the spinners came in, she started unleashing massive sixes—one of which went 82 meters. She now understands her role. If she values her wicket and bats for 20 overs, she’s already on 80 runs. She has the potential to be one of those batters who, if she plays a little longer in T20 cricket, will have centuries to her name. And that could make a massive impact on the team’s total.”
Jess Jonassen’s Adaptation to the No. 3 Role
Mithali also praised Jess Jonassen, emphasizing how well she embraced the No. 3 position: “She has adapted to the role exceptionally well. Just two innings and two fifties—it never seemed like she was someone pushed up from the lower order and struggling. She seized the opportunity to score runs. Even after losing Meg Lanning early, Shafali and Jess never looked under pressure. They kept finding boundaries while also rotating the strike. Their strong understanding while batting together was great to see.”
Jess Jonassen on Delhi Capitals’ Playoff Qualification
Jess Jonassen expressed her excitement about Delhi Capitals officially qualifying for the TATA WPL playoffs:
“To officially qualify for the finals again is really pleasing for us. I feel like we’ve built up nicely throughout the tournament so far. We’re looking forward to a couple of days off before our game in Lucknow.”
Jonassen on Shafali Verma’s Explosive Batting
Jonassen also had high praise for Shafali’s ball-striking ability: “She’s incredible—an absolute weapon of a ball striker. While batting together, we kept reminding each other to play to our strengths. My role was to remind her to stay smart. She is one of the best ball strikers in the women’s game, and for her, it’s just about picking the right ball to attack. To be fair, there are a lot of balls that are the right ones for Shafali Verma to hit. I always enjoy batting with her, and I’m really pleased that she was there at the end and got the job done.”
With Delhi Capitals securing a playoff berth, all eyes will be on Shafali Verma and Jess Jonassen as they continue to dominate the WPL 2024. Stay tuned for more updates!
