In a heart-stopping encounter that marked the inauguration of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, Mumbai Indians emerged victorious over Delhi Capitals with a stunning last-ball six from Sajeevan Sajana, securing a four-wicket win. The match, held on Friday (February 23) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, left fans on the edge of their seats as the defending champions pulled off a remarkable victory.
With just five runs needed off the final delivery and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur departing the scene, 29-year-old Sajana showcased nerves of steel as she dispatched the ball from Alice Capsey over the boundary ropes, clinching the win for Mumbai Indians in a dramatic fashion.
Before Sajana’s heroics, it was Harmanpreet Kaur and Yastika Bhatia who steadied the ship for Mumbai Indians with a crucial 56-run partnership. Harmanpreet’s blistering knock of 55 runs off 34 balls and Bhatia’s composed 57 off 45 balls helped Mumbai Indians overcome early setbacks. Additionally, Amelia Kerr’s quickfire 24 off 18 balls provided vital support. For Delhi Capitals, Arundhati Reddy and Alice Capsey, who bowled the final over, claimed two wickets each.
Earlier in the match, Delhi Capitals posted a competitive total of 171 runs for the loss of five wickets, courtesy of impactful innings from Capsey, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Meg Lanning. Capsey’s stellar 75 off 53 balls, coupled with contributions from Rodrigues (42 off 24 balls) and Lanning (31 off 25 balls), propelled Delhi’s innings. However, Mumbai Indians’ bowlers, including Nat Sciver Brunt and Amelia Kerr, managed to restrict Delhi’s scoring with timely breakthroughs.
In the post-match presentation ceremony, losing captain Meg Lanning acknowledged Mumbai’s disciplined bowling performance, highlighting their ability to maintain pressure throughout the innings. Despite the loss, Lanning commended her team’s efforts, particularly noting the competitive spirit displayed in taking the match down to the wire.
On the other hand, winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her satisfaction with Mumbai Indians’ performance and credited her batting coach for instilling confidence in her. Reflecting on the match-winning moment, Harmanpreet praised Sajana’s ability to deliver under pressure and emphasized Mumbai’s depth in batting.
Looking ahead, Delhi Capitals, led by Meg Lanning, will aim to bounce back in their upcoming encounter against UP Warriorz. Meanwhile, Harmanpreet Kaur’s Mumbai Indians will face off against Gujarat Giants in their next fixture.
