Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W) are set to face off against Gujarat Giants Women (GJ-W) in the ongoing Women’s Premier League 2025 (WPL 2025) at the historic Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday, February 27. This match marks the 12th game of the season, and the excitement is palpable as these two teams go head-to-head once again.
In their previous encounter at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Gujarat Giants emerged victorious by six wickets. However, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have had a mixed run in the tournament so far, with two wins and two losses, placing them in the second position in the standings. After a strong start with consecutive wins, they faced setbacks in their last two matches against Mumbai Indians and UP Warriorz. With just two games left at their home venue, RCB-W will be aiming to bounce back and secure crucial victories.
On the other hand, Gujarat Giants are currently at the bottom of the table with just one win in four matches. Led by Ashleigh Gardner, the team has struggled to find consistency in their performances. They will be looking to turn their campaign around with a win against RCB-W and climb up the rankings to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Pitch Report:
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium pitch has provided balanced contests so far, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. Batsmen can expect good pace and bounce, allowing them to play their shots freely, especially during the powerplay and middle overs. However, bowlers who can vary their pace and use different tactics have found success on this surface. Seamers have also found some help, making early wickets crucial in the powerplay. While bowling first may hold an advantage, well-timed shots by the batsmen will be key to enjoying batting on this pitch.
Predicted Playing XIs:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women: Smriti Mandhana (c), Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Ellyse Perry, Raghvi Bist, Richa Ghosh (w), Kanika Ahuja, Georgia Wareham, Kim Garth, Sneh Rana, Ekta Bisht, Renuka Singh Thakur
Gujarat Giants Women: Beth Mooney (w), Harleen Deol, Phoebe Litchfield, Ashleigh Gardner (c), Deandra Dottin, Simran Shaikh, Tanuja Kanwar, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Meghna Singh, Priya Mishra
Probable Best Performers:
Ellyse Perry is expected to shine with the bat for RCB-W, having scored 235 runs in the last four matches and being the highest run-scorer in WPL 2025. Kashvee Gautam, on the other hand, is likely to lead the bowling attack for Gujarat Giants, having taken five wickets in the tournament so far.
Match Prediction:
In today’s match, the chasing team is predicted to have an advantage, with two possible scenarios for the outcome. If Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women win the toss and choose to bowl, they are expected to restrict Gujarat Giants to a score between 150-170 and emerge victorious. On the other hand, if Gujarat Giants Women win the toss and opt to bowl, the predicted score for RCB-W is between 170-180, leading to a win for Gujarat Giants.
As the excitement builds for this crucial match in WPL 2025, fans can expect a thrilling contest between Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women and Gujarat Giants Women at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Team Form and Momentum
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women have had a rollercoaster ride in the Women’s Premier League 2025, showcasing both dominant performances and tough losses. Despite their recent setbacks, the team is known for its resilience and ability to bounce back strongly. Led by the dynamic Smriti Mandhana, RCB-W boasts a lineup packed with international stars like Ellyse Perry, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, and Richa Ghosh, providing them with a strong foundation to deliver exceptional performances.
Gujarat Giants Women, on the other hand, have faced challenges in finding their rhythm in the tournament. However, with players like Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner, and Deandra Dottin in their ranks, they have the firepower to turn their fortunes around. The team will be motivated to put up a solid display against RCB-W and make a statement in the league.
Key Battles to Watch
One of the key battles to watch out for in this match is between Ellyse Perry and Kashvee Gautam. Perry, with her all-round skills, has been a standout performer for RCB-W, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. On the other hand, Gautam has been a revelation with her bowling prowess, troubling opposition batters with her pace and accuracy. The clash between Perry’s batting prowess and Gautam’s bowling talent promises to be a fascinating contest within the larger game.
Another intriguing battle will be between the experienced campaigners in both teams. Players like Smriti Mandhana, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner bring years of international experience and know-how to the table. Their ability to handle pressure situations and lead from the front will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match.
Match Strategy and Tactics
RCB-W will likely look to exploit the early swing and bounce available at the Chinnaswamy Stadium by opting to bowl first if they win the toss. Their seamers, led by Sneh Rana and Ekta Bisht, will aim to take early wickets and put pressure on the Gujarat Giants batting lineup. With the explosive Danielle Wyatt-Hodge and consistent Smriti Mandhana at the top of the order, RCB-W will aim to set a challenging target for the opposition.
On the other hand, Gujarat Giants will focus on building partnerships and capitalizing on the powerplay overs if they bat first. Their middle-order, comprising players like Harleen Deol and Deandra Dottin, will be crucial in stabilizing the innings and setting a competitive total. In the bowling department, they will rely on the pace and accuracy of Kashvee Gautam and Meghna Singh to contain the RCB-W batting lineup.
Final Prediction
Considering the form and balance of both teams, the match is likely to be closely contested with moments of brilliance from individual players. While Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women have the edge in terms of experience and recent performances, Gujarat Giants Women have the potential to spring a surprise with their explosive batting lineup.
In conclusion, fans can expect an enthralling encounter between these two teams at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium, with the outcome hanging in the balance till the last ball is bowled. Stay tuned for an action-packed clash in the Women’s Premier League 2025.
