JUST two runs separated the Royal Challengers from the UP Warriorz in the Women’s Indian Premier League last night, with the former getting up in the competition’s second consecutive nail-biter to open the 2024 season.

The Royal Challengers made 6/157 from their 20 overs, before restricting the Warriorz to just 7/155.

After a few quick opening partnerships – both in pace and in time – the run rate did not really get going until the fourth wicket for the Royal Challengers. That particular partnership saw Sabbhineni Meghana and Richa Ghosh put together a 79-run partnership to really elevate the tally.

Although the wickets kept falling even after that partnership, the run rate of about seven runs an over was still being well maintained. Ghosh was at the forefront of the runs for the Royal Challengers, topping the tally with 62 off just 37 balls. Meghana also had a big day out in the middle, making 53 off 44.

The Warriorz really shared the wicket taking duties, with Rajeshwari Gayakwad the only one to take more than one wicket.

The Warriorz’ reply was slower to get going than their opponent’s had been, but they also got going in the fourth wicket partnership.

Shweta Sehrawat and Grace Harris put on a 77 run partnership to get things moving. However, all that good work was undone when the Warriorz lost 2/2 in the next 11 balls to really curtail their momentum.

As hard as their tail wagged to get them over the line it was not enough, falling agonisingly short. Unsurprisingly it was Harris and Sehrawat who top scored for the Warriorz, making 38 and 31 respectively.

Asha Shobana was the star with the ball for Bangalore, taking five wickets which included two in one over. Aussie duo Sophie Molineux and Georgia Wareham also picked up a wicket each.