MI vs RCB Highlights, WPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru beats Mumbai Indians by 11 runs
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are their beat Mumbai Indians
WPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Stun Mumbai Indians in a Thrilling Finale
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 came to a dramatic close as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a stunning 11-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in the final league match. Played at the iconic Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, the match was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with big hits, brilliant catches, and nail-biting moments. RCB, already out of playoff contention, played the role of party spoilers, denying MI a direct spot in the final and forcing them into an Eliminator against Gujarat Giants.
The Build-Up
The stage was set for a thrilling encounter. Mumbai Indians, one of the strongest teams in the tournament, needed a win to secure a top-of-the-table finish and a direct entry into the final. On the other hand, RCB, despite a disappointing season, had the chance to end their campaign on a high note. The Brabourne Stadium, packed with fans dressed in MI’s signature blue, was buzzing with excitement.
RCB’s captain, Smriti Mandhana, won the toss and elected to bat first. The decision proved to be a masterstroke as RCB posted a formidable total of 199/3 in their 20 overs. MI, despite a valiant effort, fell short by 11 runs, finishing at 188/9.
RCB’s Batting Masterclass
RCB’s innings was a perfect blend of aggression and composure. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Sabbhineni Meghana got the team off to a flying start. Meghana, known for her explosive batting, smashed 26 off just 13 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Her aggressive approach put MI’s bowlers under pressure early on.
Smriti, on the other hand, played the anchor role beautifully. She scored a elegant 53 off 37 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes. Her fifty was a treat for the fans, filled with classic drives and powerful pulls. After Meghana’s dismissal, Smriti found support from Ellyse Perry, who played a crucial knock of 34 not out.
The middle order also contributed significantly. Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 36 off 22 balls, including innovative scoops and powerful hits, kept the scoreboard ticking. Georgia Wareham provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 18 off just 7 balls, smashing a six and two fours in the final over to take RCB to 199.
MI’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs. Hayley Matthews and Amelia Kerr picked up key wickets, but fielding lapses, including dropped catches, cost MI dearly.
MI’s Chase: A Tale of Missed Opportunities
Chasing 200, MI got off to a shaky start. Openers Hayley Matthews and Amelia Kerr failed to provide the explosive start MI needed. Matthews was dismissed for 19, caught by debutant Heather Graham off Sneh Rana’s bowling. Kerr followed soon after, falling to Rana for 9.
However, Nat Sciver-Brunt kept MI’s hopes alive with a sensational knock. She scored 69 off just 35 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Her fifty came off just 28 balls, and she looked unstoppable at one point. But her dismissal in the 15th over, caught and bowled by Ellyse Perry, turned the tide in RCB’s favor.
Harmanpreet Kaur, MI’s captain, tried to steady the ship with a 20-run cameo, but her dismissal in the 11th over left MI in trouble. Amanjot Kaur and Sajana played brief cameos, but the required run rate kept climbing.
The final over, bowled by Perry, was a nail-biter. MI needed 18 runs, and Sajana smashed two sixes off the first three balls, raising hopes of an unlikely win. But Perry held her nerve, dismissing Sajana on the fourth ball and sealing the victory for RCB.
Key Moments
Smriti Mandhana’s Fifty: Smriti’s elegant half-century set the foundation for RCB’s big total.
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s Heroics: Her explosive 69 kept MI in the hunt, but her dismissal proved costly.
Ellyse Perry’s All-Round Show: Perry’s 34 not out and three wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Sciver-Brunt, made her the player of the match.
Final Over Drama: Sajana’s two sixes in the final over created tension, but Perry’s composure ensured RCB’s victory.
Impact on the Tournament
RCB’s win had significant implications for the tournament. Mumbai Indians, who were aiming for a direct spot in the final, were forced to play the Eliminator against Gujarat Giants. Delhi Capitals, who finished at the top of the table, secured a direct entry into the final.
For RCB, the victory was a consolation prize in an otherwise disappointing season. However, the team showed glimpses of their potential, and fans will be hopeful for a stronger performance in the next edition.
Records Broken
The match also saw a new record being set. WPL 2025 broke the record for the most sixes hit in a single season of the Women’s Premier League. The aggressive batting from both teams added to the excitement, making it a memorable contest.
Looking Ahead
As the league stage concluded, the focus shifted to the playoffs. Mumbai Indians, despite the loss, remained one of the favorites to win the title. Their clash against Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator promised to be another thrilling encounter.
For RCB, the season ended with a mix of emotions. While they couldn’t make it to the playoffs, their final performance against MI showed that they have the talent and determination to bounce back stronger next year.
Conclusion of the Match
The WPL 2025 match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru was a perfect example of why cricket is called a game of uncertainties. RCB, written off by many, rose to the occasion and delivered a performance to remember. For MI, it was a reminder that no team can afford to take anything for granted in T20 cricket.
As the tournament moved into its knockout stages, fans were left eagerly anticipating more thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. The Women’s Premier League continues to grow in stature, showcasing the best of women’s cricket and inspiring a new generation of players and fans.
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