Vadodara, 21 January (H.S.): Delhi Capitals skipper Jemimah Rodrigues anchored an unbeaten half-century Monday, steering her side to a commanding seven-wicket chase of Mumbai Indians' 155 at BCA Stadium in Women's Premier League 2026, blending leadership with match-winning resolve.

Openers Lizelle Lee and Shafali Verma ignited the pursuit with a powerplay blitz, enabling Rodrigues (51* off 37) and Marizanne Kapp to cruise home in 19 overs. Post-match, Rodrigues credited the explosive start: Lizelle-Shafali form a lethal opening pair—bowlers know one mistake means punishment. Their powerplay aggression on this slowing pitch eased our middle order.

Reflecting on her knock, she revealed heightened expectations: Recent cameos came too late down the order. Today, I stayed till the end, shouldering responsibility—mission accomplished.

On nascent captaincy, Rodrigues called it learning curve: Feared pressure buildup, but coach Jonathan Batty and leadership group eased it. Trust decisions, learn from errors.

Explaining batting reshuffle, she noted: Team-first mindset: Laura Wolvaardt thrives at three against new ball; I handle spin later. She's invaluable on-field support. Ahead of January 24's RCB clash, Rodrigues emphasized timing: One match at a time, stick to processes—results follow.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar