The inaugural edition of the WPL 2024 concluded in a thrilling fashion with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) emerging victorious. The tournament, which witnessed a spectacle of exceptional talent and fierce competition, culminated with RCB outclassing the Delhi Capitals in the final. This victory not only marked a historic moment for the franchise but also saw individual players shine brightly, etching their names in WPL history.
RCB’s All-Round Dominance Secures Maiden Title
RCB, led by the ever-reliable Smriti Mandhana, displayed exceptional consistency throughout the tournament. Their batting line-up, boasting of powerhouses like Ellyse Perry and Sophie Devine, provided a solid foundation. The bowling attack, spearheaded by the wily Shreyanka Patil and the experienced Renuka Singh, proved equally adept at restricting opponents.
The final against Delhi Capitals was a one-sided affair. RCB bowlers, led by Patil’s four-wicket haul, bundled out Delhi for a meagre 113 runs. The chase, although not without hiccups, was comfortably completed with eight wickets in hand. Perry’s gritty knock of 47 runs played a crucial role in steering RCB home.
This comprehensive victory not only cemented RCB’s position as the first-ever WPL 2024 champion but also marked a significant achievement for women’s cricket in India. The packed stadiums, the passionate fan support, and the high level of competition showcased the immense potential of the WPL and its ability to further empower female athletes.
A Night of Individual Brilliance: Orange Cap, Purple Cap, and More
While RCB’s collective effort was instrumental in their triumph, the night also belonged to individual players who showcased exceptional talent throughout the tournament.
Ellyse Perry of RCB, with her phenomenal batting display, secured the coveted Orange Cap. Perry amassed a staggering 341 runs in just nine matches, averaging a remarkable 69.4. Her consistent run-scoring and ability to anchor the innings proved invaluable for RCB’s success.
Shreyanka Patil, another RCB player, had a tournament to remember. Her accurate off-spin bowling earned her the prestigious Purple Cap. Patil finished the tournament as the leading wicket-taker, claiming a total of 17 wickets. Her performance, particularly the crucial four-wicket haul in the final, played a decisive role in RCB’s bowling attack.
Deepti Sharma, playing for the UP Warriors, was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Season. Her all-round brilliance, comprising crucial wickets and valuable contributions with the bat, made her a standout performer.
Shafali Verma of the Delhi Capitals, known for her explosive batting style, bagged the award for the Most Sixes of the Season. Her fearlessness and ability to clear the boundaries consistently provided Delhi with crucial impetus during the tournament.
Sophie Molineux of RCB, who played a pivotal role in their win with a crucial knock in the final, was deservedly awarded the Player of the Final title.
Other notable awards included the Emerging Player of the Season, which went to Shreyanka Patil for her exceptional all-round performance for RCB, and the Best Catch of the Season, awarded to S. Sajana of the Mumbai Indians for a spectacular diving grab.
The WPL awards ceremony not only recognized individual excellence but also highlighted the diverse skillsets and contributions that make women’s cricket such a captivating sport.
WPL 2024: Financial Rewards and a Look Ahead
The WPL 2024 not only provided a platform for showcasing exceptional cricketing talent but also offered significant financial rewards. RCB, the champions, were awarded a hefty INR 6 crore (US$7,41,000), while the runners-up, Delhi Capitals, received INR 3 crore (US$3,70,500).
Individual awards also came with attractive cash prizes. The Orange Cap and Purple Cap winners, Ellyse Perry and Shreyanka Patil, received INR 5 lakh (US$61,850) each. Similarly, other awardees like the MVP and the Player of the Final were also handsomely rewarded.
The inaugural WPL 2024 has been a resounding success, not only for the on-field action but also for its impact on women’s cricket in India. The high viewership, passionate fan support, and substantial financial backing underline the immense potential of the league. As the WPL 2024 gears up for its next season, one can expect even more exciting competition, the emergence of new stars, and a further boost to women’s cricket in the country.