RCB faces must-win situation against struggling Warriorz
RCB is gearing up for a crucial match after a six-day break, knowing that they must win their next two games to keep their playoff hopes alive. The last time RCB and Warriorz clashed, it ended in a nail-biting Super Over showdown.
Who’s Playing:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs UP Warriorz (UPW)
Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, 7.30pm IST
What to Expect:
All eyes are on RCB as they sit in fourth place, needing victories in their remaining matches to stay in the competition. Their first challenge is against bottom-ranked UP Warriorz, with the defending champions aware that a single loss in the next two games will dash their playoff dreams. On the other side, Warriorz are looking to salvage their season after a defeat to Gujarat Giants.
RCB has been grappling with a string of losses following two initial wins, highlighting concerns over their batting lineup’s overreliance on Ellyse Perry. While the bowling unit led by Renuka Singh, Kim Garth, and Georgia Wareham has been commendable, the team has struggled with their lower-order bowlers. A much-needed break could be the reset they need.
Warriorz, on the other hand, have faced challenges in both batting and bowling departments, compounded by inconsistent lineup changes. Despite some standout performances from players like Sophie Ecclestone, the team has failed to find their rhythm. Captain Deepti Sharma’s performance with the ball has been lackluster, adding to their woes.
Form Guide:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: LLL (last three matches, most recent first)
UP Warriorz: LLL
Team News:
In a bid to strengthen their spin department, RCB is likely to rely on the experience of Sneh Rana and Ekta Bisht. Meanwhile, the Warriorz might see changes in their bowling lineup, with players like Gouher Sultana and Rajeshwari Gayakwad in contention for a spot.
In the Spotlight:
Ellyse Perry has been a standout performer for RCB this season, with a series of impressive half-centuries to her name. As the team’s top-order batters struggle for consistency, all eyes will be on Perry to lead the charge. On the other side, Sophie Ecclestone’s stellar all-round performance will be crucial for Warriorz, as she aims to replicate her previous success against RCB.
Key Stats:
• Warriorz have lost 33 wickets in the middle overs, the highest in WPL 2025.
• Perry boasts a striking 143.42 strike rate against Warriorz, her highest in WPL.
• Henry holds the highest strike rate in WPL, at 211.76.
With both teams facing critical challenges, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling battle between RCB’s desperation for a win and Warriorz’s quest for redemption. Stay tuned for an action-packed showdown at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
