New Delhi, Aug 25 (PTI) South Delhi Superstarz emerged victorious in a nail-biting finish to claim the Women's Delhi Premier League title, edging past Central Delhi Queens by a mere run. The narrow victory helped Superstarz downplay the sorrows of last year's final defeat.
The Queens, set a target of 122, succumbed to early pressure. Their chase, constantly interrupted and hampered by untimely rain, concluded at 120 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs on Sunday night. They faced a tough setback with early wickets, and their momentum never fully recovered once they resumed play after a rain delay.
Reduced to 74/5 at one point, Monika (33 off 28 balls) along with Riya Shokeen—who finished unbeaten at 28 off 28 balls—attempted a resurgence with a valiant 33-run stand for the sixth wicket. The partnership displayed promise but faltered at a critical moment with Monika's departure, leaving Riya to fend for support from the tailenders. Despite their spirited efforts, the Queens' innings fell just short—a heartbreaking one-run defeat.
Medhavi Bidhuri delivered a standout performance for the Superstarz, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs in her three overs. Himakshi Choudhary offered steadfast support, with figures of two wickets for 18 runs over her four overs.
Opting to bat first, Superstarz, too, confronted a disciplined bowling display by the Queens. Opener Tanishqa Singh scored 14 off 13 balls while Shivi Sharma contributed with 29 off 36 balls, building a steady platform. Momentum shifted when Tanisha Singh (28 off 23) contributed to a crucial 50-run partnership with Shivi. However, once they lost the set batters, the middle order crumbled under pressure.
The Queens capitalized on this, with spinners Priya Mishra (2/19), Nidhi Mahto (2/24), and Saachi (2/7) standing out with restrictive spells. Nevertheless, captain Shweta Sehrawat steered her team to a challenging total of 121/8 with a determined 34 off 24 balls.
Brief Scores: South Delhi Superstarz: 121/8 in 20 overs (Shweta Sehrawat 34 off 24 balls, Shivi Sharma 29 off 36, Tanisha Singh 28 off 23; Priya Mishra 2/19, Nidhi Mahto 2/24, Saachi 2/7). Central Delhi Queens: 120/8 in 20 overs (Monika 33 off 28 balls, Riya Shokeen 28 not out off 28; Medhavi Bidhuri 3/26, Himakshi Choudhary 2/18).
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