After the Delhi Capitals’ campaign in the present Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 started with a crushing loss, captain Jemimah Rodrigues opted for resiliency over sorrow, adamant that one bad night would not define her leadership or the team’s season.
At the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on Saturday, Delhi lost badly to the reigning champion Mumbai Indians by 50 runs. Jemimah had a difficult WPL captaincy debut as a result. The Capitals were bowled out for 145 in 19 overs when chasing a massive mark of 196; their batting never got going and lacked the momentum for such an enormous chase.
The only bright point in their innings was Chinelle Henry, who scored a valiant 56 off 33 balls, although it wasn’t supposed to be against the reigning champs. Even with the decisive loss, Jemimah maintained her composure and optimism. Although she thought they bowled rather well, she attributed the victory to missed partnerships rather than effort.
“We bowled well, but we were unable to form batting partnerships. We’ll take care of that. We can’t be too hard on ourselves since it’s a different team. At the post-match presentation ceremony, Jemimah declared, “I have no doubt that we will recover.”
The 24-year-old, who was leading the WPL for the first time after Meg Lanning’s exit, found personal meaning in the game. With her parents watching from the stands as she reached a professional milestone, the occasion felt even more memorable. Even though the outcome wasn’t perfect, Jemimah emphasised how crucial perspective and speedy recuperation are in a crowded competition.
“Captaining was enjoyable for me. It felt wonderful to be here, at home and in front of my parents. difficult beginning. We won’t focus on the low turnaround, which is a positive thing. Such games are set aside by a good squad. We intend to accomplish it,” she continued.
Next up for Jemimah & Co. is Lanning’s Warriorz.
Before being removed by seasoned bowler Shabnim Ismail, Jemimah herself had a fairly dismal batting performance, scoring just one run off three deliveries. The Mumbai native did clarify, though, that the team’s overall strategy for the competition will not be changed by her individual performance or the initial defeat.
With limited time for introspection, the Delhi-based team now focusses on making a swift turnaround as they get ready to play Lanning’s UP Warriorz in their upcoming match on Sunday, also in Navi Mumbai. The matchup between the new leader of the three-time finalists and the former DC captain will be intriguing.
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