UP-W Vs BLR-W, Women’s Premier League 2025: Match Prediction, Dream 11 Team, Fantasy Tips And Pitch Report | UP Warriorz Vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 has reached its most exciting phase, with teams battling hard to secure their place in the playoffs. Every match now carries extra weight, and with the competition heating up, each team is pushing its limits to stake a claim for the coveted WPL trophy.

In one of the most crucial encounters of the season, the UP Warriorz (UP-W) are set to take on defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (BLR-W) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, on March 8.

Both teams are currently locked on equal points, making this match a virtual knockout in terms of rankings. However, the Warriorz have played one match more than their opponents, making it even more critical for them to capitalize on this opportunity and move ahead on the points table.

With both sides struggling to find their best combination, this match promises to be a fierce battle between two talented squads looking to get back to winning ways.

Match Details: WPL 2025, Match 18

Date and Time: March 8 – 07:30 PM IST | 02:00 PM GMT
Venue: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow
Live Streaming: Official WPL broadcasters and digital platforms

Team Form and Key Talking Points

UP Warriorz (UP-W) – Looking to Rebound

The UP Warriorz have had a mixed season so far, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling to maintain consistency. Led by the dynamic Deepti Sharma, the team has some of the biggest names in women’s cricket, including Sophie Ecclestone, Grace Harris, and Chinelle Henry.

Despite their talent, their biggest challenge has been team balance—they have tried different combinations but have yet to find the perfect playing XI. The batting unit has been inconsistent, with key batters failing to fire together, putting pressure on the middle order.

However, the Warriorz will take confidence from their bowling attack, which has been one of the most disciplined in the tournament. Sophie Ecclestone, one of the best spinners in the world, has led from the front, while Chinelle Henry has provided much-needed pace.

A win against RCB would not only boost their playoff chances but also give them much-needed momentum as the tournament approaches its climax.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (BLR-W) – Defending Champions Eyeing Redemption

Defending champions RCB have had an underwhelming season so far, struggling to find the same dominance that won them the title last year. Smriti Mandhana, their captain, has shown glimpses of brilliance, but the team has lacked consistency in crucial moments.

The batting unit, featuring Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh, and Georgia Wareham, is one of the most powerful in the league. However, they have often failed to capitalize on strong starts, which has led to disappointing collapses.

The bowling attack, led by Renuka Singh Thakur and Sneh Rana, has also struggled to contain runs in the death overs, making it tough for the team to defend totals.

A victory here would be massive for RCB, putting them firmly in playoff contention and giving them the confidence to mount a serious title defense.

Ekana Stadium Pitch Report – A Bowler’s Paradise?

The Ekana Stadium in Lucknow is unique compared to other WPL venues, as its pitch tends to favor bowlers, especially spinners and slower bowlers.

Last season’s IPL matches saw the pitch offer turn and variable bounce, making it challenging for batters to dominate.
Pacers who rely on cutters and slower balls can be very effective in these conditions.
However, batters who play with patience and build their innings smartly can also find success.

Expect this match to be a low-scoring thriller, with spinners playing a crucial role in deciding the outcome.

Key Battles to Watch Out For

1. Smriti Mandhana vs. Sophie Ecclestone – The Clash of Titans

Mandhana, one of the best left-handed batters in the world, will face a stern test against Ecclestone’s world-class spin.
If Mandhana survives the powerplay, she could take the game away from UP-W.

2. Ellyse Perry vs. Deepti Sharma – The All-Rounder Showdown

Two of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket will be crucial to their team’s success.
Perry’s aggressive batting vs. Deepti’s crafty off-spin could decide the middle overs.

3. Richa Ghosh vs. Chinelle Henry – Death Over Fireworks

Ghosh’s finishing ability will be tested against Henry’s pace and variations.
If Ghosh fires in the final overs, RCB could put up a strong total.

UP-W vs BLR-W Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Picks

Wicketkeeper:

Richa Ghosh – A reliable batter with the ability to score quick runs in the middle order.

Batters:

Smriti Mandhana – A key player, especially if she gets a good start.
Kiran Navgire – A powerful striker who can turn the game in a few overs.
Georgia Voll – Has shown consistency and could be a surprise performer.

All-Rounders:

Grace Harris – One of the most explosive players in WPL 2025.
Ellyse Perry – A must-have in any fantasy team.
Deepti Sharma – Will contribute with both bat and ball.
Chinelle Henry – Can trouble batters with her pace and movement.

Bowlers:

Sophie Ecclestone – The top-ranked bowler in women’s cricket.
Sneh Rana – A crucial player for RCB’s spin attack.
Renuka Singh Thakur – Can swing the ball early and pick wickets in powerplays.

Captain and Vice-Captain Choices:

Choice 1: Ellyse Perry (c), Deepti Sharma (vc)
Choice 2: Georgia Voll (c), Sophie Ecclestone (vc)

Dream11 Backups:

Kranti Goud, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Alana King, Arushi Goel

Final Thoughts – Who Will Win?

Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, making this a highly unpredictable contest.

Why UP Warriorz Could Win:

Strong spin attack suited for Ekana’s slow wicket
Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma’s experience in clutch moments
Grace Harris’s ability to change the game in a few overs

Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru Could Win:

A power-packed batting lineup led by Mandhana, Perry, and Ghosh
Renuka Singh’s ability to strike early with the new ball
Defending champions – big-match experience matters

With so much at stake, expect a thrilling contest that will have fans on the edge of their seats.

Will UP Warriorz secure a crucial win, or will RCB make a strong push towards the playoffs? We’ll find out on March 8 in Lucknow!

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