New Delhi: The Mumbai Indians have once again proved their dominance in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) by securing their second title with an eight-run victory over the Delhi Capitals. This marks Delhi’s third consecutive defeat in a WPL final, continuing their unfortunate streak in the competition. Opting to field first after winning the toss, Delhi Capitals made an immediate impact, with South African pacer Marizanne Kapp dismissing Mumbai opener Hayley Matthews for just three runs. Kapp continued her impressive spell, also removing Yastika Bhatia, finishing with stellar figures of 2-11 in her four overs. Despite the early setbacks, Mumbai fought back through captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s resilient knock.
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.
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