New Delhi: The Mumbai Indians have once again showcased their dominance in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) by clinching their second title with a hard-fought eight-run victory over the Delhi Capitals. This defeat marks Delhi’s third consecutive loss in a WPL final, highlighting their struggle in the competition. Winning the toss and opting to field first, Delhi Capitals got off to a strong start with South African pacer Marizanne Kapp claiming early wickets, including that of Mumbai opener Hayley Matthews for just three runs. Kapp continued her impressive form, also dismissing Yastika Bhatia and finishing with impressive figures of 2-11 in her four overs. Despite the setbacks, Mumbai staged a strong comeback led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s resilient innings.
Harmanpreet Kaur Anchors Mumbai’s Innings
Harmanpreet Kaur played a crucial role, scoring a composed 66 to anchor Mumbai’s innings. She formed a significant third-wicket partnership with England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, adding 89 runs in 10 overs. Sciver-Brunt’s promising innings ended at 30 after an ill-fated sweep shot picked out a fielder. With minimal support from the lower order, Mumbai struggled to build a dominant total, finishing at 149-7.
Delhi’s Chase Falters Early
Chasing 150 for victory, Delhi’s hopes took an immediate hit as both captain Meg Lanning and opener Shafali Verma were dismissed within the first three overs. The wickets continued to tumble, with Jess Jonassen and Annabel Sutherland departing before the eighth over, leaving Delhi in deep trouble.
Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp Offer Resistance
Vice-captain Jemimah Rodrigues injected some momentum into the innings with a quick 30, striking at the highest rate among batters who faced more than seven deliveries. However, her dismissal to Amelia Kerr’s brilliant caught-and-bowled effort further dented Delhi’s chase. Kapp, already a standout with the ball, fought hard with a late charge, but her efforts were not enough.
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s All-Round Brilliance Seals Victory
Sciver-Brunt, who had already contributed with the bat, delivered with the ball as well. She dismissed Kapp for 40, ending Delhi’s hopes, and followed it up by bowling Shikha Pandey the next ball. Delhi’s innings quickly folded, handing Mumbai another historic WPL title.