The Mumbai Indians (MI) delivered an impressive victory, defeating the UP Warriorz by 8 wickets in the eleventh match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, held in Bengaluru. After opting to bowl first, Mumbai’s bowlers showcased a disciplined performance, limiting the Warriorz to a modest 142/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite Grace Harris’s fiery innings of 45 runs from just 26 balls, the rest of the Warriorz faltered under pressure. Mumbai, led by an unbeaten 75 from Nat Sciver-Brunt, managed to chase down the target comfortably in just 17 overs, with significant support from Hayley Matthews.
UP Warriorz Struggle Despite Grace Harris’s Dazzling Effort
The Warriorz didn’t have the best start, with Kiran Navgire dismissed cheaply for just one run. Nevertheless, Harris injected some much-needed impetus by smashing six fours and two massive sixes. She was well-supported by Dinesh Vrinda, who contributed a steady 33 from 30 balls. The pair put on an 81-run partnership for the second wicket. However, once Harris was dismissed in the 10th over, the Warriorz stumbled, losing five wickets for just 24 runs. Deepti Sharma couldn’t make an impact, while Tahlia McGrath managed just a single run. Shweta Sehrawat added 19, but it was not enough as Mumbai’s bowlers, particularly Sciver-Brunt (3/18) and Shabnim Ismail (2/33), tightened the screws, keeping the Warriorz in check and restricting them to 142/9.
Sciver-Brunt’s Excellence Leads Mumbai to Victory
In pursuit of 143, Mumbai Indians had a slight wobble when Yastika Bhatia was out for a duck in the fourth over. Yet, Hayley Matthews and Nat Sciver-Brunt took charge, combining for a commanding 133-run partnership for the second wicket. Matthews, playing a solid supporting role, scored a stable 59 off 50 balls, while Sciver-Brunt was in aggressive form, powering to 75 from just 44 deliveries, embellished with 13 boundaries. Their stand demolished the Warriorz’s bowling attack, making Mumbai’s chase appear seamless. Harmanpreet Kaur wrapped up the game in style with a boundary, ensuring they crossed the finish line with 18 balls still to play. This win significantly bolsters Mumbai’s position on the points table, underlining their strength as serious contenders for the title.
Twitter Reactions to the Game
The Twitterverse exploded with praise for Nat Sciver-Brunt’s outstanding performance:
- "Never seen a more consistent player than Nat Sciver Brunt. Absolute legend of this game with bat & ball. #TATAWPL #WPL2025" – Mumbai Indians FC
- "A TOP INNINGS BY NAT SCIVER BRUNT…..!!!!! – Scored 75 Runs in 44 Balls including of 13 Fours against UP." – Vikas Yadav
And more voices chimed in, recognizing her dual prowess with both bat and ball:
- "Nat Sciver-Brunt shines again! She takes 3 wickets, conceding just 18 runs in 4 overs, delivering a match-changing spell. Adding to her stellar form, she also notches her 3rd fifty of the season." – Twitter User
As Mumbai continues its impressive run, fans and cricket lovers can’t help but admire the sheer brilliance of players like Sciver-Brunt, who continue to redefine excellence in the WPL 2025.
(Note: The original article was published on WomenCricket.com, a part of Cricket Times.)