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Spirited RCB Knock MI Out of Direct Final Entry with Thrilling Victory

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Smriti Mandhana celebrates her explosive half-century for RCB in WPL 2025. — Smriti Mandhana’s explosive fifty helps RCB post 199 in WPL 2025. Credit: BCCI

RCB’s Stunning Performance Ends Their WPL 2025 Campaign on a High

Despite being out of contention for the WPL 2025 playoffs, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a spirited performance in their final league match, preventing Mumbai Indians (MI) from securing direct qualification to the final. RCB’s all-round display with bat and ball led to a thrilling 11-run victory, paving the way for Delhi Capitals to enter the final for the third consecutive year. As a result, MI will now take on Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator.

MI’s Stuttering Chase Falls Short Despite Sciver-Brunt’s Heroics

A Struggling PowerPlay for Mumbai

Chasing a stiff target of 200, MI needed an aggressive start but faltered in the PowerPlay. Although Hayley Matthews struck a boundary off the very first ball and followed it up with three more off Ellyse Perry, MI found themselves struggling at 45/2 after six overs. Sneh Rana struck twice in quick succession, dismissing both openers and leaving MI in a difficult position.

Harmanpreet and Sciver-Brunt Attempt to Stabilize the Innings

Harmanpreet Kaur and Nat Sciver-Brunt were expected to rebuild the innings, but Kim Garth had other plans. The RCB pacer produced a sharp leg-cutter, forcing Harmanpreet to edge behind for 20 off 18 balls. Sciver-Brunt, however, fought valiantly, keeping MI’s slim hopes alive. She targeted Heather Graham, Rana, and Perry, smashing boundaries at crucial intervals. Her half-century not only marked another significant milestone but also made her the first player in WPL history to cross 400 runs in a season.

Nat Sciver-Brunt in action during her fighting knock of 69 against RCB in WPL 2025. — Nat Sciver-Brunt’s valiant 69 couldn’t prevent MI’s loss to RCB. Credit: BCCI

Late Drama in the Final Over

With MI requiring 71 from the final 31 balls, their chances dwindled as Rana added another wicket to her tally by dismissing Yastika Bhatia. Although MI’s lower order fought hard, Sajeevan Sajana’s valiant effort in the final over nearly turned the tide. Perry had an expensive over, conceding wides and sixes, reducing the equation to 12 off 3. However, she held her nerve to prevent any further damage, sealing RCB’s 11-run win.

RCB’s Batting Blitz Sets Up a Formidable Total

Mandhana and Meghana Provide a Flying Start

Batting first, RCB posted a commanding 199/3, thanks to a powerful start from Smriti Mandhana and Sabbhineni Meghana. Meghana unleashed an early onslaught, racing to 26 off just 12 balls before Matthews dismissed her. Mandhana continued the aggression, hammering Amelia Kerr for two sixes and a four in a single over. She reached her half-century with back-to-back boundaries, providing RCB with a strong foundation.

Richa Ghosh and Wareham’s Explosive Finish

Ellyse Perry, though initially struggling with her strike rate, found her rhythm as the innings progressed. Meanwhile, Richa Ghosh played a crucial cameo, adding valuable runs. The final overs belonged to Georgia Wareham, whose breathtaking 31* off just 10 balls stunned MI. Smashing five fours and a six, Wareham ensured RCB amassed 39 runs from the last two overs— a decisive factor in their eventual triumph.

Key Takeaways from the Match

RCB’s All-Round Performance: A fitting end to their WPL 2025 campaign despite missing out on playoffs.
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s Record: Becomes the first player to cross 400 runs in a single WPL season.
Wareham’s Cameo: A game-changing 31* off 10 balls that propelled RCB past the 190-run mark.
Sneh Rana’s Brilliance: A crucial 3-wicket haul that derailed MI’s chase.

What’s Next for Mumbai Indians?

MI’s defeat means they will now face Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator, where a win will give them another shot at reaching the final. Can MI bounce back from this setback, or will Gujarat Giants seize the opportunity?