Shikha Pandey and Titas Sadhu represent two generations of fast bowlers for Delhi Capitals and discussed their bowling skills and team atmosphere in their analysis of their commanding six-wicket victory over the Gujarat Giants.
Regarding her comeback to the starting lineup, Sadhu said, “Obviously, it’s a different feeling coming to the ground, doing what you love, and I wanted to back my strengths.” Her performance, alongside the Capitals’ pace attack, played a crucial role in restricting Gujarat to 127 for 9.
As an 18-year-old, Titas Sadhu made headlines at the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup by taking six wickets in six matches at an amazing economy rate of 4.27. Her most deadly weapon is her inswinger, which she is known for being able to swing in both directions. She advanced swiftly to the senior level and was called up for her first ODI match in December 2024. She has already taken 13 wickets at an average of 19.00 in 12 T20I outings.
Shikha Pandey acknowledged how difficult it might be to miss games but remain prepared, and she gave Sadhu credit for having a strong mentality and said, “Credit to you. Sometimes when you sit out for a few games, having the right mindset is important. I guess DC is really fun that way because we play with four pacers.” Sadhu added that it was a complete team effort, saying, “All of us got wickets today.”
Pandey also added, “I actually thought Kapp bowled really well. She was swinging and seaming the ball, and I got lucky with Mooney’s wicket.”
Pandey gave her fellow bowlers a lot of credit, particularly Marizanne Kapp, who led Delhi’s attack by taking 2 for 17 and promptly eliminating Gujarat’s top order. Gujarat was reduced to 20 for 4 in the powerplay when Kapp and Pandey destroyed their batting order, and Sadhu and Annabel Sutherland then claimed key wickets as well.
Sadhu highlighted the Delhi Capitals’ dedication to fielding, which has been crucial over the team’s three seasons. “One of the biggest plus points of DC has been fielding all through the three seasons. Today was also a testament to that.” said Sadhu to which Pandey agreed, highlighting Niki Prasad’s impact, saying, “We pride ourselves in fielding, and Niki has been a nice addition to us. It’s nice that she’s come in and gelled well with the team.”
Throughout WPL 2025, Delhi Capitals have continuously displayed outstanding fielding, making vital saves, making quick catches, and causing game-changing run-outs. One of their greatest assets has been their fielding group, where players with quick reactions and athleticism like Marizanne Kapp, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shafali Verma have led the way.
A recent addition to the team, Niki Prasad, has fit right in and given them fielding even more depth. Their recent games, in which they took advantage of half-chances and kept opponents under pressure, demonstrated their dedication.
Sadhu expressed gratitude for the opportunities WPL has provided her, stating, “I think I was very lucky because I was picked by DC before I made my international debut, and I’ve spoken about this a lot. WPL has really made it easy for me when I went for international matches because I didn’t feel any difference.” She gave the league credit for fostering confidence in new players at the top level by bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket.
As she reflected on her own career, Pandey talked about her experiences playing in other leagues and how the Delhi Capitals had been a unique place for her. At the first WPL auction, the Delhi Capitals purchased her for INR 60 lakh.
Shikha, who has represented India in several World Cups, possesses a wealth of experience in addition to swing, seam, and pace. Shikha, a 35-year-old who has taken 43 wickets in 62 T20 international matches, is one of the greatest inswingers in the league and has the ability to take wickets early on.
“I think I got really lucky. I got to play all around the world, going to different places, and I’ve really enjoyed playing in that environment. I guess DC is one environment I enjoy playing in. The bonding among all the players, including the support staff, makes you want to go out and contribute to the team every single time,” remarked Shikha Pandey.
With Jess Jonassen’s 61* off 32 balls, the Capitals easily chased 128 in 15.1 overs, putting them at the top of the WPL standings. Delhi Capitals continues to solidify its position as a well-rounded and strong group in WPL 2025, with the seamers laying the groundwork for victory and the batters finishing strongly.
