PUNE, Feb 6: Shafali Verma, the opener for Delhi Capitals, expressed her gratitude towards the Women’s Premier League, highlighting its role in teaching her how to construct her innings effectively. She noted that the league offers valuable opportunities for players to enhance their skills.
Verma has been instrumental in Delhi Capitals’ journey, as the team reached the WPL finals in both seasons.
“WPL allows players to engage in numerous matches, providing excellent chances to make minor adjustments in their gameplay,” Verma stated in a media release.
“Personally, I have learned the art of building my innings while participating in the WPL.”
She also mentioned that the WPL offers players ample game time and a chance to interact with international cricketers.
“Competing alongside foreign players provides a unique learning experience for all of us. I particularly admire their ability to remain calm and composed both on and off the field.
“That is a significant lesson I’ve gained while playing with overseas players,” she added.
Delhi Capitals are currently holding a pre-season camp here.
“Our preparations are in full swing. The atmosphere is fantastic, and everyone is bonding well,” Verma shared after a training session.
The young opener faced a tough phase in November of last year when she was dropped from the ODI squad, but the steadfast support from her family kept her motivated.
She recently emerged as the leading run-scorer in the Senior Women’s One-Day Challenger Trophy, amassing 414 runs in five matches with an impressive average of 82.80 and a strike rate of 145.26, which includes one century and three fifties. She is now focused on making a strong return to the national team.
“Honestly, the past few months have been challenging for me. My father suffered a heart attack, and just a couple of days later, I was removed from the ODI squad.
“It was a mentally tough period, but my father encouraged me, and my family supported me throughout. I’ve come to understand that my responsibility is to score runs whenever I have the chance, and that’s where I want to direct my focus.
“The only element I can control is my preparation; if I train effectively and score runs, I know I can come back stronger,” she concluded.
Delhi Capitals will kick off their WPL 2025 campaign against Mumbai Indians on February 15 in Vadodara. (Agencies)
