Gardner and Litchfield Lead Gujarat Giants to Comfortable Win Over RCB

Gujarat Giants (GG) secured a six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a crucial WPL 2025 clash. Chasing 126, GG faced early pressure but turned the game around in the ninth over when Ashleigh Gardner attacked rookie Prema Rawat, smashing three fours and a six. This shift made the chase comfortable, handing RCB their third straight home defeat. With this result, RCB, GG, and UP Warriorz are now tied on four points, setting up a tight race for the playoffs.

Perry’s Rare Failure & Mandhana’s Struggles

Ellyse Perry, who entered the game in great form, was dismissed for a duck, her first in WPL history. Her mistimed shot off Gardner found Tanuja Kanwar at square leg, leaving RCB at 16 for 2. Smriti Mandhana also struggled, repeatedly beaten by 21-year-old Kashvee Gautam’s sharp movement. She eventually fell for 10 off 20 balls, continuing her struggles against spin.

Ahuja Adds Momentum

Kanika Ahuja’s 33 off 27 was RCB’s bright spot. The all-rounder, who worked on her power-hitting during rehab, took on Priya Mishra’s leg-spin, smashing two lofted shots over the infield. However, after her dismissal, RCB collapsed, managing only 125 for 7—matching their lowest WPL total.

Renuka’s Early Strikes & Gardner’s Counterattack

Renuka Singh dismissed both openers to give RCB hope. But Gardner shifted gears, smashing 19 runs off Rawat’s over and taking full advantage of the gaps. Even Harleen Deol’s dismissal didn’t slow GG down.

Litchfield’s Game Awareness

Phoebe Litchfield played smartly, using reverse sweeps to keep the scoreboard ticking. A dropped catch on 11 gave her another chance, which she capitalized on. Alongside Gardner, she added 51 off 36 balls, sealing the chase with 21 balls left and boosting GG’s net run rate.