March 1, 2025: Former India skipper Mithali Raj recently praised Meg Lanning for her exceptional batting performance during the Women's Premier League 2025 clash between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians. Lanning played a stellar knock of 60 runs off 49 balls, including nine boundaries, helping her team chase down a modest target with ease.
Mithali, speaking on JioHotstar, lauded Lanning's leadership qualities as well as her batting performance. "A big player always steps up in crucial matches, and today, as both captain and player, Meg Lanning did just that. She understood the significance of this game for Delhi Capitals and played accordingly. The way she executed her shots, especially that exquisite straight drive and on-drive, showcased her class," said Mithali.
Lanning’s composed knock allowed Shafali Verma, who usually plays an aggressive role, to approach her innings with more freedom. Mithali also highlighted the strong partnership and understanding that has developed between Lanning and Verma over time. "Having a leader like Meg Lanning in the middle instills immense confidence in the dugout," she remarked, adding, "At one point, when Shabnim Ismail came in for her fourth over, we saw Meg walk up to Shafali and advise her against playing any rash shots, emphasizing that this was the last over to navigate carefully. That level of leadership is invaluable."
Delhi Capitals dominated the match, chasing down a target of 124 with ease. The win was powered by strong contributions from Lanning and Verma at the top of the order. Jess Jonassen and Minnu Mani also played pivotal roles with the ball, guiding their team to a convincing 9-wicket victory.
Mithali Raj also commented on how the partnership between Lanning and Verma has a significant impact on the team’s winning chances. "Every time Meg Lanning and Shafali Verma put together a 50-plus partnership, the team’s chances of winning increase significantly," Mithali noted. She also praised Verma for taking a more measured approach, saying, "There was a lot of discussion between her and Meg Lanning, especially while facing Shabnim Ismail. Once she found her rhythm, it was a delight to watch them score from both ends."
Delhi Capitals reclaimed the top spot in the Women's Premier League standings with this dominant performance.
Last Updated on March 1, 2025 by Disha Rojhe
