Women’s Premier League 2023, Royal Challengers Bangalore Women vs Mumbai Indians Women, 19th Match: Stats at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai

The nineteenth match of WPL 2023 will be played between Royal Challengers Bangalore Women and Mumbai Indians Women at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on March 21. Royal Challengers Bangalore Women are placed fourth in the points table whereas Mumbai Indians Women are the table toppers and they have already qualified for the next stage in the tournament.

Royal Challengers Bangalore Women registered a stunning victory over Gujarat Giants in their last game where their opener Sophie Devine smashed a blistering 99 off 36 balls with 9 fours and 8 sixes as well. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians Women faced their first defeat at the hands of UP Warriors. But that certainly didn’t affect their qualification as they have already won 5 games so far as well. It will be interesting to know how both teams will perform.

Smriti Mandhana, the RCB captain said: “I think we took a lot of confidence from the last game. Today, the way we bowled in the middle overs we restricted them to a good total on a good surface. And then just two words – SOPHIE DEVINE. (On bowing performance) I felt they were a bit above par given how wickets were playing, but then when we walked out to bat I realised we had done well with the ball.

(On Devine’s innings) My job was very easy, just giving the singles to her and watching it, could have done with some popcorn. Some of the sixes were really massive. (On team performance) I think the whole atmoshphere has been very positive, we have improved as a bowling, fielding and batting unit. We had a few doubts the way we started but now with two wins I’m more assured that we are an amazing team.”

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Sophie Devine, the Player of the Match said: (On getting Orange Cap) Always nice to beat Meg in something. (On milestone of fastest 100) I was in the zone tonight, milestones don’t get to me so at 99 it wasn’t about a drop and run, it was about getting the team home earlier. Hopefully, we can still be in the run for the playoffs. I think I’ve got used to the conditions now, having watched a few games and I’m learning everyday.

It perhaps help that I’m a bit older. Massive credit to the bowlers earlier, conditions were tough with minimal swing and no spin. They’ve done a lot of the hardwork today. I think I’ve just snuck in and taken the credit with this innings. I think the one that ended up in the top tiers was my favourite shot of today.

Venue

STATS – T20