Synopsis
On March 16, 2025, the Mumbai Indians celebrated their second WPL title at the Brabourne Stadium, defeating Delhi Capitals by eight runs. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur led with a brilliant 66, while Nat Sciver-Brunt's bowling played a crucial role in the victory.Key Takeaways
- Mumbai Indians clinched their second WPL title.
- Harmanpreet Kaur scored 66 runs in the final.
- Nat Sciver-Brunt took 3 wickets, securing the win.
- The match was held at Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
- Team unity and depth were highlighted as factors in their success.
Mumbai, March 16 (NationPress) Last year, the players of the Mumbai Indians were filled with sorrow after their defeat in the Eliminator against the eventual Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, in New Delhi. However, on Saturday night, the joy returned as MI triumphed over Delhi Capitals by eight runs, securing their second WPL title at the Brabourne Stadium.
The victory for MI was orchestrated by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who brilliantly timed her shots, finishing with a top score of 66 as the home team tallied 149/7 on a fresh pitch. In their quest to defend 150 runs, Nat Sciver-Brunt delivered a remarkable performance with figures of 3-30, including the crucial wicket of Marizanne Kapp, while Amelia Kerr added 2-25, helping MI limit DC to 141/9 in their 20 overs to clinch the WPL 2025 title.
“With our previous victories, expectations can be heightened. Yet, we have faced significant matches before, so it didn’t feel substantially different. Our team meetings are straightforward. They had their success before us, but today was a fresh day, a new match. Our squad's depth was key, and we were determined not to let this game slip away,” remarked all-rounder Amanjot Kaur.
All-rounder Sanskriti Gupta expressed her confidence in the team, stating, “Once we reached our score, we believed victory was ours. Having played cricket for a decade, it didn’t feel like my debut. I want to experience this winning feeling repeatedly.”
Amelia, who celebrated a T20 World Cup win with New Zealand last year, was overjoyed to secure another WPL title with MI. “This year has been quite special for me. I’m thrilled to share the dressing room with such remarkable individuals. Celebrating with great teammates is what it’s all about.” She noted the impressive contributions of Kamalini, who has showcased the competition's potential for emerging talents.
Kamalini, fresh off her U19 Women’s T20 World Cup victory with India in February, shared her excitement about winning the WPL for the first time. “I was a bit nervous, but I really enjoyed batting. My family must have loved it too. That was my first six, and it was exhilarating. Everyone fielded like tigers. In the WPL, I learned a lot about mental strength.”
Wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia reflected on the unforgettable experience of winning the WPL before a crowd of 14,700 fans. “Performing in front of our home crowd is unparalleled. I relish keeping against the game’s greats and feel fortunate to be on their side.”
Hard-hitting all-rounder Sajeevan Sajana dedicated the championship victory to the support staff, led by head coach Charlotte Edwards. “I am immensely proud and happy to be part of this family. The support and energy we maintain, both on and off the field, is incredible.”
“While we faced disappointment last season, this year we executed our plans well. A tremendous amount of hard work went on behind the scenes, and this trophy belongs to everyone who contributed. I am proud of my journey and want to inspire others to stay positive and persist, even when faced with challenges,” she added.
MI bowling coach Jhulan Goswami praised the performances of Shabnim and Nat, who emerged as leading run-getters in WPL 2025. “What an outstanding performance! They delivered when the team needed it most. Shabnim is a warrior who leads from the front, which is what we desire as a team.”
“In the dugout, one must appear calm, but inside, the tension is real. We required wickets during the powerplay, and that was our clear objective. Once we secured those wickets, it felt like we could control the game, which brought calmness to our dugout,” she explained.
“I was impressed by Nat's commitment. We all know her partner, former England pacer Katherine Sciver-Brunt, is expecting a child. For her to step up, take charge, and excel is commendable, alongside the talented youngsters who performed admirably for us.”
When discussing her coaching collaboration with Charlotte, Jhulan said, “It began after my retirement when I started working with her. It has been an incredible learning experience, and I’ve gained insights every step of the way. Charlotte is very tactical, and she keeps me alert. Competing against her taught me a great deal about mentality and leadership, which I now apply here.”
“This team possesses immense potential. We have a robust batting lineup, numerous international stars, and promising youngsters. It’s vital to maintain their morale and provide them the freedom to relish their game,” she concluded.
MI team owner Nita Ambani lavished praise on the team for their title victory. “While seated in the dugout, my heart raced, but I had unwavering faith in my girls. They were unstoppable, fighting until the last ball. Nat was exceptional throughout the season, and her three wickets were outstanding.”
“The captain Harman’s batting was phenomenal. Observing our dugout, there was never a dull moment; the cheers and claps kept everyone energized. Two titles in three years is a remarkable achievement.”
“It’s not just about my girls; when you support and empower any girl child, look at what they can accomplish. I am incredibly proud to be the owner of the Mumbai Indians today. As a franchise, we aim to empower young girls through sports. Both education and sports are intertwined, and it’s crucial for parents to encourage their daughters to participate in sports.”
