Mumbai Indians (MI) emerged victorious in a thrilling final of the Women’s Premier League 2025, edging past Delhi Capitals (DC) by 8 runs at Brabourne Stadium on Saturday, March 15. The nail-biting contest saw Mumbai defend a competitive total of 149/7, securing their second championship title with a disciplined bowling performance.
Mumbai Indians sets a competitive target
After being put in to bat first, Mumbai Indians got off to a shaky start, losing both Yastika Bhatia (8 off 14) and Hayley Matthews (3 off 10) cheaply. However, the experienced Natalie Sciver-Brunt (30 off 28) steadied the innings alongside captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who played a captain’s knock. Kaur’s explosive 66 off 44 balls, laced with 9 fours and 2 sixes, provided the much-needed momentum for Mumbai. Late contributions from Amanjot Kaur (14 off 7) and G Kamalini (10 off 7) pushed the team’s total to 149/7 in 20 overs.
For Delhi Capitals, Marizanne Kapp was the standout bowler, delivering a miserly spell of 2/11 in her 4 overs. Jess Jonassen (2/26) and NR-Shree Charani (2/43) also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, restricting Mumbai to a chaseable target.
Delhi Capitals falls short despite Marizanne Kapp’s heroics
In response, Delhi Capitals suffered an early blow as openers Meg Lanning (13 off 9) and Shafali Verma (4 off 9) failed to provide a solid start. Jemimah Rodrigues (30 off 21) showed promise, but wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals, putting pressure on the middle order.
Kapp once again emerged as the key player for Delhi, fighting hard with a counter-attacking 40 off 26 balls, including 5 fours and 2 sixes. Niki Prasad’s composed 25 not out off 23 balls kept the chase alive, but Mumbai’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs.
Natalie Sciver starred with the ball as well, claiming 3/30 in her 4 overs, while Amelia Kerr (2/25) and Shabnim Ismail (1/15) ensured Mumbai’s grip on the game remained firm. Saika Ishaque and Matthews also picked up crucial wickets to restrict Delhi Capitals to 141/9, sealing the victory for Mumbai by 8 runs.
Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 8 runs in the WPL 2025 final
Mumbai Indians showcased their dominance in the Eliminator of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, securing a resounding 47-run victory over Gujarat Giants to book their place in the final. This victory marks Mumbai’s second appearance in a WPL final in three seasons, once again setting up a title clash with Delhi Capitals. The two teams had previously faced off in the inaugural WPL final in 2023, where Mumbai emerged victorious, and now Delhi will be aiming to avenge that loss and secure their maiden WPL title. Mumbai’s triumph in the eliminator was built on a brilliant batting display, complemented by a clinical bowling performance that left Gujarat struggling throughout the match.
Opting to field first after winning the toss, Gujarat hoped to restrict Mumbai to a manageable total, but Mumbai’s batters had other plans. Although Mumbai suffered an early setback, their middle order came to the rescue with a stunning display of aggressive batting. Hayley Matthews and Nat Sciver-Brunt took complete control, attacking the Gujarat bowlers with a flurry of boundaries and sixes. Matthews was in devastating form, finding gaps with ease and taking full advantage of the powerplay. Her knock set the platform for Mumbai to build a massive total. Sciver-Brunt played the perfect anchor, rotating the strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries. The duo ensured that Mumbai never lost momentum, consistently keeping the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace. Their contributions powered Mumbai Indians to a mammoth 213/4 in 20 overs, the highest total in WPL 2025, putting Gujarat under immense pressure even before they came out to bat.
Gujarat Giants’ batting collapse seals their fate
Chasing a daunting target of 214 runs, Gujarat never looked comfortable at the crease as Mumbai’s disciplined bowling attack put them on the back foot from the very beginning. Phoebe Litchfield provided some resistance with a well-made 31 runs, but she found little support from her teammates as wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals. Bharti Phulmali also contributed 30 runs, but the rest of Gujarat’s batting lineup failed to deliver under pressure. Poor running between the wickets and reckless shot selection only added to Gujarat’s woes, and as the required run rate kept climbing, Mumbai’s bowlers capitalized on the mounting pressure. The middle order and lower order failed to put together any meaningful partnerships, and Gujarat were eventually bowled out for 166 runs in 19.2 overs, falling 47 runs short of the target and exiting the tournament in disappointing fashion.
Mumbai’s bowling unit executed their plans to perfection, ensuring Gujarat never had a chance to settle into the chase. Matthews and Amelia Kerr were the standout performers with the ball, both picking up two wickets each and dismantling Gujarat’s top order early in the innings. Sciver-Brunt and Shabnim Ismail also played their part, chipping in with one wicket each, further tightening Mumbai’s grip on the match. The bowlers maintained impeccable line and length, making it difficult for Gujarat to find boundaries, while the fielders backed them up with exceptional energy and sharp reflexes. Mumbai’s relentless pressure left Gujarat with no room to recover, and their disciplined bowling effort ensured that they comfortably defended their total to book their place in the final.
Another finals for Mumbai Indians. Just unbelievable this. They have teams all over the world and the consistency those teams show is beyond imagination. The best franchisee in the world by a very long way. Congratulations for yet another finals.#WPL
Bowlers’ worst ever nightmare tonight at CCI. Bowling to Nat Sciver Brunt & Harman in full flow! Incredible hitting from the great duo! @mipaltan raises their game when it mattered. #TATAWPL2025
Nat Sciver’s batting this season is one of the finest a batter could have in a t20 tournament. Nat Sciver would’ve been the greatest women cricketer for me if Perry didn’t exist.
This generation will never see another Nat Sciver Brunt. She’s GODLY, she’s unreal, the definition of cricketing perfection. No one is even close to her level right now.
In a high-voltage clash at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, Mumbai Indians emerged victorious in a nail-biting 9-run win over Gujarat Giants Women in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. The match witnessed breathtaking performances, with Harmanpreet Kaur leading from the front with a 54-run knock, while Bharti Fulmali’s heroic 61 off 25 balls nearly pulled off an incredible chase for Gujarat. However, Amelia Kerr’s bowling brilliance (3/34) and Shabnim Ismail’s economical spell (2/17) helped Mumbai defend their total of 179/6, securing a crucial win in the tournament.
Harmanpreet Kaur anchors MI’s innings with a captain’s knock
Opting to bat first, Mumbai Indians got off to a cautious start, with Hayley Matthews (27 off 22, 3 fours, 2 sixes) providing early momentum. However, Gujarat struck early, dismissing Kerr (5 off 9) in the third over.
Nat Sciver-Brunt (38 off 31, 6 fours) built a solid partnership with Matthews, steadying the innings before both batters fell in quick succession. With MI at 105/3 in 13.4 overs, skipper Harmanpreet took charge, crafting a masterclass innings of 54 off 33 balls, hitting nine boundaries to accelerate the scoring rate.
In the death overs, Amanjot Kaur’s explosive cameo of 27 off 15 balls provided the final flourish, while Yastika Bhatia’s quickfire 13 off just 4 balls (1 four, 1 six) helped Mumbai finish at a formidable 179/6 in 20 overs. For Gujarat, Ashleigh Gardner (1/27) and Kashvee Gautam (1/32) were the standout bowlers, but Deandra Dottin (0/44 in 4 overs) had an off day, leaking crucial runs.
Bharti Fulmali’s heroics not enough as MI bowlers hold their nerve
Chasing 180, Gujarat Giants got off to a shaky start, losing Beth Mooney (7 off 9) early to Matthews. The wickets continued to tumble as Harleen Deol (24 off 17, 5 fours) and Phoebe Litchfield (22 off 16, 4 fours) tried to revive the innings, but MI’s bowlers struck at regular intervals.
At 92/6 in 13.1 overs, the chase seemed all but over for Gujarat. However, Fulmali turned the game on its head with a sensational counterattack, smashing 61 off just 25 balls, including eight fours and four sixes. She was well supported by Simran Shaikh (18 off 16), with the duo adding 50 runs in just 22 balls, putting Gujarat within touching distance of an improbable win.
With just 10 runs needed off the final over, Mumbai needed a special effort, and they found it in Matthews, who bowled brilliantly to restrict Gujarat to 170/9 in 20 overs, sealing MI’s thrilling victory. The win strengthens Mumbai’s position in the WPL 2025 points table, while Gujarat will rue missed opportunities, especially with Fulmali’s innings going in vain despite a valiant fightback.
Mumbai Indians registered a dominant six-wicket victory over UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, on March 6. The match witnessed a stunning all-round performance from Hayley Matthews and a match-winning spell from Amelia Kerr, ensuring Mumbai’s fourth victory of the season.
Amelia Kerr wreaked havoc with her leg-spin
Batting first, the Warriorz posted 150/9 in their 20 overs, with Georgia Voll leading the charge. The opener played a brilliant knock of 55 off 37 balls, smashing 13 boundaries and providing her team with a solid foundation. Voll received good support from Grace Harris, who contributed 28 runs, as the duo stitched together a crucial 74-run partnership for the first wicket.
However, Mumbai struck back as Kerr wreaked havoc with her leg-spin, picking up an impressive 5-wicket haul for 38 runs in her four-over spell. She removed key batters and ensured that the Warriorz couldn’t capitalize on their strong start. Captain Deepti Sharma chipped in with 27 runs, while Sophie Ecclestone added 16 to push the total to 150. Despite their promising opening stand, the hosts struggled against Mumbai’s disciplined bowling attack, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
Hayley Matthews and Nat Sciver-Brunt seal the win for Mumbai
Chasing 151 for victory, Mumbai got off to a sensational start, thanks to an explosive 68-run knock from Matthews. The opener played with attacking intent, smashing eight fours and two sixes, ensuring that the pressure stayed on the the Warriorz bowlers. Matthews found an able partner in Nat Sciver-Brunt, who contributed a solid 37 runs, as the duo stitched together a 92-run stand, which effectively sealed the game in Mumbai’s favor.
With such a strong foundation, Mumbai had no trouble in chasing down the target with six wickets in hand, securing their fourth win of the season. Meanwhile, the Warriorz continued to struggle, losing their fifth match out of seven in the tournament. Mumbai’s comprehensive performance, driven by Matthews’ aggressive batting and Kerr’s brilliant bowling, reaffirmed their position as one of the strongest contenders in WPL 2025.
Five wickets haul for Queen Amelia Kerr. Hayley Matthews is back in form. Nat Sciver-Brunt is Miss consistent as usual. Everything is going perfectly for Mumbai Indians. pic.twitter.com/9Z6iMvY2UF
STAT: Amelia Kerr becomes first @mipaltan player to take a fifer in #WPL (overall 6th)
Kerr also now holds the joint world record for most fifers in women’s T20 cricket – 3 (Kary Chan and Anisa Mohammed also have 3 five-wicket hauls in T20 cricket) #UPWvMI#CricketTwitterpic.twitter.com/1uMwT0QkDP
The new season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) is set to begin on February 14 with the opening match between Gujarat Giants and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium. The tournament is anticipated to have some nail-biting fixtures and exciting cricket action with the final scheduled to be held on March 15 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
As the teams gear up for the prestigious competition, captains of all 5 teams in the league shared insights on their respective team plans during a press conference organized by WPL’s official broadcaster Star Sports.
Meg Lanning hopes her side wins their maiden title this season
The skipper of the Delhi Capitals (DC),Meg Lanning, expressed confidence in her team’s performance, stating that they did almost everything right and remained one of the most dominant sides in the league. She believes there is no need for significant changes in their approach, as their overall strategy has been effective. However, the DC captain emphasized that success in high-stakes matches ultimately comes down to handling pressure. Lanning acknowledged that this is the one key area where DC would aim to improve in the upcoming season. Capitals were finalists of the league in the previous and have a star-studded squad featuring Jemimah Rodriguez, Marizanne Kapp, and Laura Wolvaardt.
Harmanpreet Kaur expresses confidence in young turks
Mumbai Indians’ captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, emphasized the significant impact of the WPL in providing young Indian players with a platform to showcase their talent and earn national call-ups over the past two seasons. She credited the league for nurturing emerging cricketers and giving them invaluable exposure at the highest level. While refraining from naming specific players, Harmanpreet expressed confidence that several rising stars will make a lasting impression on the big stage this season.
The captain of defending champions RCB, Smriti Mandhana, addressed the setback of losing key players like Sophie Devine to injury, acknowledging that such challenges are concerning but emphasizing the need to make the most of the squad at hand. She reaffirmed the team’s determination to defend their title despite the hurdles. Smriti also spoke about the electrifying experience of playing in front of the passionate Chinnaswamy crowd, describing RCB’s fan base as deeply emotional—where both love and criticism come in equal measure, but on a grand scale. However, she sees this intense fan engagement as a source of motivation, driving the team to give their absolute best, not just for themselves but for the dedicated supporters who invest their hearts in RCB.
A new challenge for Deepti Sharma
Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma, newly appointed as captain of UP Warriorz following Alyssa Healy’s injury-enforced absence, acknowledged the immense responsibility that comes with leading the team. However, having previously captained her state side, she remains confident in her ability to step up and deliver strong results. Deepti expressed her enthusiasm for new challenges, embracing the leadership role as an opportunity for growth. Deepti expressed her determination to make the most of this chance and is hopeful of guiding UP Warriorz to a successful campaign with her experience and strategic mindset.
Ashleigh Gardner confident of the great leap forward
After two disappointing seasons at the bottom of the points table, the Giants have made a strategic leadership change, appointing Ashleigh Gardner as captain in place of Beth Mooney. Gardner emphasized that the team is not dwelling on past setbacks but is fully focused on a stronger performance this season. She expressed confidence in the squad’s improved balance, highlighting the presence of greater international experience and promising young talent. While the ultimate goal is to compete for the title, Gardner stressed that the immediate priority is achieving significantly better results than in the previous two seasons, taking it one step at a time.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is set to launch its third season on February 14, 2025, with the final match scheduled for March 15 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. The tournament will be held across four cities: Vadodara, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Mumbai. Mumbai Indians (MI), who won the inaugural WPL in 2023, are aiming to reclaim their title this year.
Mumbai Indians’ road to redemption
After a successful inaugural season in 2023, where they defeated the Delhi Capitals in the final, Mumbai Indians couldn’t defend their title in 2024, losing to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Eliminator. This year, under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, MI are focused on returning to their winning form.
MI boast a strong batting lineup, featuring players such as Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Harmanpreet Kaur, Sajeevan Sajana, and Pooja Vastrakar. The team also acquired young talent in the auction, picking up 16-year-old all-rounder G. Kamalini and South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk.
MI’s strength and weakness
Mumbai Indians possess a well-rounded team with depth in both batting and bowling. Their batting unit is considered one of the best in the competition, and the addition of new talent has further strengthened their squad.
The team will need to address the areas where they fell short in the previous season, particularly in the Eliminator match. Overcoming these challenges will be crucial for a successful campaign.
MI’s best playing XI for the Women’s Premier League
Yastika Bhatia
Role: Opening batter and wicketkeeper.
Strengths: A technically sound left-handed batter who can provide solid starts. Her ability to rotate the strike and play aggressive shots when needed makes her a reliable opener. She is also a dependable wicketkeeper.
Impact: Her role at the top ensures stability, and her wicketkeeping adds value to the team’s fielding unit.
Hayley Matthews
Role: All-rounder (opening batter and off-spin bowler).
Strengths: Matthews is a dynamic player who can dominate with the bat and bowl economical off-spin. Her ability to hit boundaries consistently and her knack for picking up crucial wickets make her invaluable.
Impact: She provides explosive starts with the bat and controls the middle overs with her bowling, making her a key player in all phases of the game.
Harmanpreet Kaur
Role: Middle-order batter and captain.
Strengths: Known for her aggressive batting style, Harmanpreet is a match-winner who can single-handedly change the course of a game. Her ability to play spin and pace with equal ease makes her a versatile batter. She is also a handy off-spin bowler and a sharp fielder.
Impact: As the captain, she brings leadership, experience, and calmness under pressure. Her ability to anchor the innings or accelerate when needed makes her the backbone of the team.
Nat Sciver-Brunt
Role: All-rounder (top-order batter and medium-pace bowler).
Strengths: Nat is one of the best all-rounders in the world, known for her ability to contribute with both bat and ball. She is a powerful hitter and a clever medium-pace bowler who can break partnerships.
Impact: Her dual skills make her a game-changer, providing balance to the team. She can stabilize the innings or accelerate as per the situation.
Amelia Kerr
Role: All-rounder (middle-order batter and leg-spin bowler).
Strengths: Kerr is a technically gifted batter and a world-class leg-spinner. Her ability to read the game and adapt her bowling accordingly makes her a potent weapon. She is also a brilliant fielder.
Impact: Her all-round abilities add depth to both batting and bowling, and her calm demeanour under pressure is a huge asset.
Amanjot Kaur
Role: All-rounder (medium-pace bowler and lower-order batter).
Strengths: Amanjot is a handy medium-pace bowler and a capable lower-order batter. Her ability to contribute in both departments makes her a useful utility player.
Impact: She adds balance to the team and can chip in with crucial performances when needed.
Pooja Vastrakar
Role: All-rounder (lower-order batter and medium-pace bowler).
Strengths: Pooja is a powerful hitter and a reliable medium-pace bowler who can bowl in the powerplay and death overs. Her ability to bowl yorkers and slower balls makes her a valuable asset.
Impact: She provides depth to the batting and is a key bowler in crunch situations.
Saika Ishaque
Role: Bowler (left-arm spinner).
Strengths: Saika is a crafty left-arm spinner who can bowl in the powerplay and middle overs. Her ability to turn the ball and deceive batters with her variations makes her a wicket-taking option.
Impact: She is a crucial part of the spin attack, often breaking partnerships and controlling the run flow.
Shabnim Ismail
Role: Bowler (right-arm fast bowler).
Strengths: Ismail is one of the fastest bowlers in women’s cricket, known for her ability to bowl consistently at high speeds. Her yorkers and bouncers are particularly effective.
Impact: Her pace and aggression make her a lethal weapon in the powerplay and death overs, often picking up early wickets.
Amandeep Kaur
Role: Bowler (right-arm medium-pace).
Strengths: Amandeep is a disciplined bowler who can bowl tight lines and lengths. Her ability to swing the ball and maintain consistency makes her a reliable option.
Impact: She complements the pace attack and provides control in the middle overs.
Jintimani Kalita
Role: Bowler (right-arm medium-pace).
Strengths: Jintimani is a young, promising bowler who can swing the ball and bowl accurate lines. Her energy and enthusiasm add freshness to the attack.
Impact: She provides a good backup option in the pace department and can be a surprise package.
The third season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) is poised to entertain ricket enthusiasts with its exciting lineup of matches. The tournament will begin on February 14, 2025, with a high-stakes encounter between the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Gujarat Giants (GG). This opening match, set to take place at the BCA Stadium in Baroda, will set the tone for the rest of the competition. Fans can expect a fierce battle between the two teams as they aim for early dominance in the league.
As the league progresses, the competition is expected to intensify with top players from around the world showcasing their talent. The final, scheduled for March 15, 2025, will take place at the iconic Cricket Club of India (CCI) in Mumbai, adding an extra layer of excitement. This prestigious venue will host the culmination of the tournament, where the champions of WPL 2025 will be crowned.
Batters set to dominate WPL 2025
The WPL has consistently provided a platform for batters to showcase their dominance, and the 2025 edition is expected to be no different. Over the past two seasons, several top-order players have stamped their authority with match-winning performances, combining power-hitting with consistency to emerge as the backbone of their respective franchises. Their ability to pace an innings, counter opposition strategies, and accelerate at crucial junctures has set them apart.
One of the key attributes of these standout batters is their adaptability across different conditions. Whether facing spin-friendly tracks or flat decks conducive to stroke play, they have displayed remarkable skill in rotating the strike and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Their aggressive intent has often put bowlers under immense pressure, forcing captains to rethink field placements and bowling changes. With an array of strokes, they have mastered the art of dismantling both pace and spin attacks, making them indispensable in the shortest format.
Top 5 leading run scorers in Women’s Premier League (WPL) history
As of the end of the two season so far, five batters have stood out with their consistent performances across both editions, amassing the most runs in the league’s brief but exciting history. These players have not only set new benchmarks but have also played instrumental roles in their respective teams’ campaigns.
1. Meg Lanning (Delhi Capitals-W) – 676 Runs
Meg Lanning (Image Source: X)
Meg Lanning, one of the most accomplished batters in women’s cricket, has been the most prolific scorer in WPL history. Across the two seasons (2023 and 2024), she accumulated 676 runs in 18 innings at an average of 42.25 and a strike rate of 130.75. Leading the Delhi Capitals (DC), Lanning consistently provided strong starts at the top of the order and set the foundation for her team’s success.
Her ability to pace an innings, shift gears when required, and handle pressure situations made her the backbone of the Delhi batting lineup. She smashed six half-centuries in the league, with her highest score being 72. Notably, in the 2024 season, she continued her consistency, scoring 331 runs in nine matches with four fifties. Her classical stroke play, combined with an aggressive intent, has made her one of the most reliable and entertaining batters in the WPL.
2. Ellyse Perry (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) – 600 Runs
Ellyse Perry (Image Source: X)
Ellyse Perry, the Australian all-rounder, has been a crucial figure for RCB and ranks second in the list with 600 runs in just 17 innings. With an outstanding average of 54.54 and a strike rate of 124.74, Perry has been the anchor in RCB’s middle order. She has displayed her ability to accelerate when required while also consolidating in tricky situations.
The 2024 season saw Perry at her best, where she emerged as the highest run-getter of the tournament, amassing 347 runs in just nine innings at a staggering average of 69.40. She played two crucial half-centuries and remained unbeaten on multiple occasions, guiding RCB to competitive totals. Perry’s all-round ability to contribute both with the bat and ball makes her one of the most valuable players in WPL history.
Shafali Verma, known for her explosive batting at the top of the order, has been one of the most impactful batters in WPL. The young Indian opener has scored 561 runs in 18 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 168.46, the highest among the top five run-scorers. She has been a game-changer for the Capitals, capable of taking the match away from the opposition within the powerplay.
Shafali’s fearless approach and ability to find boundaries with ease have made her a nightmare for bowlers. Her highest score of 84 came in the 2023 season, where she played several match-winning knocks. In the 2024 edition, she continued her aggressive style, scoring 309 runs at a strike rate of 156.85, including three fifties. Her power-hitting ability, especially in the early overs, has made her an invaluable asset to the Delhi Capitals.
4. Harmanpreet Kaur (Mumbai Indians) – 549 Runs
Harmanpreet Kaur (Image Source: X)
Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Harmanpreet Kaur has been a key contributor to her team’s success, scoring 549 runs in 16 innings at an average of 45.75 and a strike rate of 137.93. As the leader of MI, she has shouldered the responsibility of guiding her team in crunch moments and has played several impactful knocks.
Her highest score of 95* in the 2024 season was a breathtaking innings that showcased her ability to finish games under pressure. Harmanpreet has registered five fifties in the WPL, proving her consistency and adaptability across conditions. With 74 fours and 11 sixes to her name, she has been a dominant force in the middle order, often rescuing MI from difficult situations and propelling them to competitive totals.
5. Nat Sciver-Brunt (Mumbai Indians) – 504 Runs
Nat Sciver-Brunt (Image Source: X)
Nat Sciver-Brunt, another crucial performer for Mumbai , completes the top five run-getters with 504 runs in 19 innings. While she has a relatively lower average (36.00) compared to the others on this list, her strike rate of 132.28 highlights her aggressive intent. The English all-rounder has played several crucial innings, particularly in high-pressure situations.
She was one of the standout batters in the 2023 season, scoring 332 runs in 10 innings at an astonishing average of 66.40, including three fifties. However, her form dipped slightly in 2024, where she managed only 172 runs in nine innings. Despite that, her ability to accelerate in the middle overs and provide stability to MI’s batting lineup makes her one of the most impactful batters in WPL history.
Niki Prasad is set to captain the Indian team in the highly anticipated inaugural U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, kicking off with a clash against West Indies in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
Malaysia set to host the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
Malaysia’s hosting of the Women’s U19 T20WC will mark their first major cricketing event since the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2008. The tournament will see 16 teams compete across a 16-day period, with matches taking place in various venues throughout the country. The competition is divided into four groups during the initial stage, with each team playing a series of exciting fixtures. A total of 41 matches will be played, making it a packed and highly competitive schedule. This marks a significant milestone for Malaysia as they welcome cricketing nations from across Asia, providing a platform for young talent to shine on an international stage.
Niki Prasad to lead India in the second edition U19 World Cup
Niki Prasad (Image Source: X)
Her appointment comes after a series of impressive performances, including leading India B to triumph in the U19 tri-series in Pune. Prasad has established herself as a versatile cricketer, excelling as both a top-order batter and an effective off-spin bowler. As the reigning champions, India will look to build on their success from the inaugural edition held in South Africa in 2023, where Shafali Verma guided the team to victory. Now, the responsibility of steering the team forward falls on Prasad, who also captained India to victory in the Women’s U19 Asia Cup held in Kuala Lumpur earlier.
1. Early beginnings and inspiration
Niki Prasad was born on October 25, 2005, in Bengaluru, Karnataka. From an early age, she was drawn to cricket, inspired by the sport while watching her brother play. At just six years old, she began playing with a tennis ball in her neighborhood, which soon evolved into a passion for leather-ball cricket. Her early fascination was nurtured by her cousin, fueling her desire to take the sport seriously.
2. Supportive family and early training
Niki’s parents quickly recognized her potential and provided unwavering support in her cricketing journey. Her mother, in particular, was a constant presence at her matches and training sessions, often accompanying her to various clubs and academies across Bengaluru. This encouragement laid the foundation for Niki’s commitment to the sport, allowing her to pursue her passion alongside her education.
3. Joining just cricket academy
In 2018/19, Niki joined the renowned Just Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, including Vinayak Sir, she began refining her cricketing techniques. The academy provided her with access to structured training, fitness routines, and facilities to develop her skills in both batting and bowling.
4. Transition to hard ball cricket
Niki’s transition from tennis-ball cricket to leather-ball cricket marked a significant turning point in her career. Recognizing her dedication and natural talent, her coaches at Just Cricket Academy emphasized technical development and match-readiness, enabling her to face more competitive challenges.
5. Leadership qualities shine at a young age
From a young age, Niki showcased strong leadership qualities, often taking responsibility for leading her team during U16 and U19 matches. Her calm demeanor, tactical awareness, and ability to handle pressure made her stand out as a captain. In 2022, she led Karnataka in the Women’s Under-19 T20 Trophy pre-quarterfinal against Bengal, where she strategically deployed her premier bowlers early, leading her team to a remarkable victory despite scoring only 59 runs.
6. A major setback – U19 Women’s T20 World Cup exclusion
In 2022, Niki faced her first major setback when she wasn’t selected for the inaugural Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. This exclusion, based on concerns about her strike rate, fueled her determination to improve. She recognized the need to elevate her game, particularly her power-hitting, and underwent intensive training to refine her batting technique and enhance her strike rate.
Rather than being discouraged, Niki used this setback as a stepping stone to work harder. She joined Bengaluru’s Just Cricket Academy and worked closely with her coach to focus on power-hitting, developing strong bat speed, timing, and technique. She also adjusted her diet, eliminating junk food to improve her physical fitness.
8. Breakthrough performance in 2024 T20 Challenger Trophy
Niki Prasad (Image Source: X)
The dedication paid off during the 2024 T20 Challenger Trophy, where Niki emerged as the top scorer. She accumulated 162 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 125.58, showcasing her ability to clear the boundaries and play aggressive cricket effectively. Her performance helped Karnataka reach the finals and displayed her transition into a power-hitter, a crucial asset in modern T20 cricket.
9. Captaining India A to victory
Niki Prasad (Image Source: X)
Niki’s leadership reached new heights during the 2024 Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup in Malaysia, where she captained India A. Her strategic brilliance was on full display as India dominated the group stages, chasing down totals comfortably. In the final against Bangladesh, her smart use of bowlers and tactical decisions led India to a comprehensive 41-run victory, reinforcing her skills as both a captain and a player.
10. Signing with Delhi Capitals in the WPL 2025
In late 2024, Niki’s impressive performances earned her a well-deserved contract with the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. She looks forward to learning from cricketing legends like Meg Lanning, Marizanne Kapp and Jemimah Rodrigues. This signing is a significant milestone in her career, opening the door to more exposure and high-level competition.
11. Admirers and mentors – Rahul Dravid, Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet Kaur
Niki is deeply inspired by Rahul Dravid, whose technique, discipline, and values she seeks to emulate. As she progressed in her cricket journey, she also developed a keen admiration for Mithali Raj, whose leadership and perseverance in women’s cricket motivated Niki to strive for greatness. Her batting style reflects a blend of Dravid’s technical precision and Raj’s tactical approach to the game.
Niki also idolizes Harmanpreet Kaur, mirroring her calm and calculated captaincy. Harmanpreet’s composure under pressure and ability to lead with fairness has deeply inspired Niki. She admires Kaur’s leadership philosophy, which focuses on keeping the team composed even in tense situations. Niki’s own leadership style is heavily influenced by Harmanpreet’s approach-valuing discipline, fostering unity, and promoting fairness among teammates. As a leader, Niki strives to earn respect through her composure and fair decision-making, ensuring her team stays focused, no matter the circumstances.
India secured a dominant 211-run victory in the first ODI, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The win was powered by an excellent batting performance from opener Smriti Mandhana and a standout bowling display from Renuka Thakur Singh, who claimed an impressive five-wicket haul and was named Player of the Match.
West Indies Women’s tour of India 2024, 2nd ODI:
Date and Time: December 24: 8:00 am GMT / 1:30 pm local/ 1:30 pm IST
Venue: Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara
Kotambi Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Kotambi Stadium promises an exciting contest between bat and ball. Early movement and spin are expected, providing ideal conditions for spinners to shine in the opening stages. Batting will be tough initially, demanding skill and patience to overcome the challenging conditions. Teams winning the toss may opt to bowl first, looking to take advantage of the favourable early conditions. However, if the initial phase is navigated successfully, batting first could also result in a strong total.
With the T20I series now concluded, the focus shifts to the fifty-over format. India emerged victorious in the T20I series with a 2-1 margin, thanks to a stellar performance by Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana, who amassed 193 runs across the three matches, was deservedly named Player of the Series. She will undoubtedly be a key player to watch as the action moves to the ODI format.
West Indies women tour of India 2024, 1st ODI:
Date and Time: December 22: 8:00 am GMT / 1:30 pm local/ 1:30 pm IST
Venue: Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara
Kotambi Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Kotambi Stadium sets the stage for an intriguing contest between bat and ball. The surface is anticipated to offer early movement and spin, creating ideal conditions for spinners to thrive in the initial stages. Batting is likely to be challenging early on, requiring skill and patience to navigate the tricky conditions.
Teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first, aiming to capitalize on the favourable early conditions. However, if the initial phase is handled adeptly, batting first could also lead to formidable totals.
Points
