WPL: Jemimah Rodrigues says DC's break boosts final readiness
What's the story
Delhi Capitals (DC) vice-captain Jemimah Rodrigues believes the long break between their last league match and the Women's Premier League (WPL) final will work in their favor.
DC secured their third consecutive WPL final spot after Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Mumbai Indians on March 11, making them group leaders.
The team had to wait for the result to confirm their top position, having finished their league matches on March 7 with a loss to the Gujarat Giants.
Here's more.
Team bonding
Rodrigues emphasizes team's advantage from the break
Rodrigues emphasized that the break has enabled team bonding sessions and offered a much-needed breather after a grueling WPL season.
"It's actually working for our team," she stated in a virtual press conference. "We've had a lot of team bonding sessions and at the same time, this WPL was a bit hectic for us."
The Capitals will meet the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants in the title clash on March 15.
Final preparations
Rodrigues confident about team's preparation for finals
Rodrigues was confident her team was well-prepared for the final, despite the challenges this year.
"We're prepared well," she said. "You know, like the other two years, this year has not been like the smoothest sailing for us."
She lauded her team for their resilience and determination to come back stronger.
The Capitals reached the final without playing at Brabourne Stadium, but Rodrigues dismissed its impact.
"Everyone's pretty familiar with the conditions and the pitches," she added.
Team dynamics
Rodrigues praises skipper Meg Lanning's leadership
Rodrigues lauded the experience of captain Meg Lanning, who is key to steering DC toward their first WPL title.
She praised Lanning's composed yet aggressive style and her leadership in setting the team's tone.
"She's calm but aggressive at the same time. I think as a leader, that's a very, very crucial quality to have," Rodrigues said.
She also praised Shafali Verma for her stunning return and veteran pacer Shikha Pandey's consistent performances throughout the season.
Stats
A look at the vice-catpain's 2025 WPL and overall stats
Rodrigues had an average outing during the league stage of the WPL 2025 season.
Across eight games, she amassed 116 runs at an average of 19.33. She also boasts a strike rate of 127.47 alongside one fifty. The batter's highest score this season is 56, which she smashed against the UP Warriorz.
Overall, she has racked up 477 runs in 26 WPL games at 28.05, alongside three fifties and a high score of 69*. Her strike rate is 139.47.