Punam Raut believes that Shafali Verma should apply the same level of responsibility and commitment to India’s future matches as she did in the Delhi Capitals’ (DC) Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2023 opener against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Her impressive 45-ball 84 contributed to a comprehensive 60-run victory for DC over Smriti Mandhana and Co.’s 163/8. Regarding Shafali’s inning, Punam Raut said on Sports18: “There has been a huge change in Shafali Verma’s batting. She has played the last few World Cups, her batting used to be a little flashy there, she used to play more in the air, but today she played quite a few shots along the ground. This is what we expect from Shafali Verma for India going forward.”
“Shafali Verma’s shot selection was commendable” – Punam Raut
Raut praised Meg Lanning and Shafali (72 off 43) for stringing together a crucial partnership against RCB, elaborating: “The way Shafali and Meg Lanning used the powerplay and then built the innings after six overs, that was a good show overall. Shafali Verma’s shot selection was commendable.”
“At this age, if you show such good timing and reading of the game, there cannot be anything bigger than that. Shafali’s innings will be an inspiration to the youngsters. It was enjoyable to watch.” She further added.
Shafali and Lanning teamed up for an impressive 162-run partnership in 14.3 overs. But after the Delhi Capitals openers were dismissed, Marizanne Kapp (39* off 17) and Jemimah Rodrigues (22* off 15) combined for a stellar 60-run stand in just over five overs to take the team to a tremendous total.