The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 is nearing its exciting conclusion, and Match No. 19 promises to be a nail-biter. Scheduled for Tuesday, March 12th at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, the reigning champions Mumbai Indians Women (MI-W) will lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore Women (RCB-W). While MI-W have already secured their playoff berth, a win in this match could see them grab the coveted top spot and a direct ticket to the final. For RCB-W, however, victory is their only path to staying alive in the tournament.
Also Read: IPL 2024: Complete SWOT Analysis of Mumbai Indians (MI)
Led by the indomitable Harmanpreet Kaur, MI-W are currently in a strong position. They are tied on points (10) with Delhi Capitals Women but have played one fewer game. A win against RCB-W would not only solidify their place in the playoffs but also potentially hand them the crucial advantage of avoiding the eliminator and progressing straight to the final.
You can hear Smriti say, “Jhulu Di”, can’t you? 🥹#OneFamily #AaliRe #MumbaiIndians #TATAWPL #MIvRCB pic.twitter.com/4HUNfhKz7b
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 11, 2024
MI-W boasts a strong batting line-up with the explosive Harmanpreet Kaur at the helm. They also have the reliable presence of young talent Yastika Bhatia and the experienced all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt. The bowling attack, spearheaded by the fiery pace of Shabnim Ismail and the skillful spin of Pooja Vastrakar, has been equally impressive.
For RCB-W, it’s a win-or-go-home situation. Currently tied on points (6) with UP Warriorz Women, they desperately need a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. Having missed out on a top-three finish in the 2023 season, skipper Smriti Mandhana and her team will be determined to avoid a similar fate this year.
RCB-W possesses a formidable batting line-up with the explosive Smriti Mandhana at the top and the multi-talented Sophie Devine in the middle order. The bowling attack features the experienced Ellyse Perry and the young pace sensation Renuka Singh. However, they haven’t been able to find consistency throughout the tournament, making this match a crucial test for their collective strength.
WPL 2024: MI-W vs RCB-W Dream11 Fantasy Team-
- Captain: Nat Sciver-Brunt
- Vice-captain: Ellyse Perry
- Wicketkeeper: Richa Ghosh
- Batters: Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Sajeevan Sajana
- Allrounders: Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine, Ellyse Perry
- Bowlers: Shabnim Ismail, Asha Sobhana, Renuka Singh
Key Players to Watch:
- Harmanpreet Kaur (MI-W): The captain and heart of MI-W’s batting. Her aggressive style and ability to score quickly under pressure will be crucial.
- Smriti Mandhana (RCB-W): RCB-W’s batting revolves around her. Her performance at the top of the order will be vital for their chances.
- Shabnim Ismail (MI-W): The veteran pacer’s experience and ability to take early wickets can put pressure on RCB-W’s batting.
- Renuka Singh (RCB-W): The young pacer has been impressive with her pace and variations. Her performance will be key to restricting the high-scoring MI-W batting.
RCB v MI Preview: The full squad got together just hours after the heartbreaking loss, to address a few critical aspects heading into the most important phase of the tournament. Sophie Devine speaks about the road ahead on @bigbasket_com presents Game Day! 🤝
Download the Big… pic.twitter.com/5fQO7MiqEo
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 12, 2024
MI-W vs RCB-W Probable Playing 11:
MI-W Probable 11: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Amelia Kerr, Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Pooja Vastrakar, Sajeevan Sajana, Saika Ishaque, Amanjot Kaur, Shabnim Ismail, Humaira Kazi
RCB-W Probable XI: Smriti Mandhana (c), Ellyse Perry, Sophie Molineux, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sophie Devine, Disha Kasat, Georgia Wareham, Asha Sobhana, Renuka Singh, Shreyanka Patil, Shradda Pokharkar
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two strong teams with contrasting goals. MI-W will be aiming to maintain their dominance and secure the top spot, while RCB-W will fight tooth and nail for their playoff survival. Both teams boast some of the best players in the world, making this a clash to watch for any cricket fan.
