Nat Sciver-Brunt etched her name into Women’s Premier League history with a sensational unbeaten century as Mumbai Indians secured a thrilling 15-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium.
The England captain produced a masterclass with the bat, becoming the first player to score a hundred in the WPL. Her flawless innings of 100 not out came from 57 balls and included 16 boundaries and one towering six, powering Mumbai Indians to an imposing total of 199 for four in their allotted 20 overs.
Sciver-Brunt’s knock not only set a new benchmark in the tournament but also eclipsed the previous highest WPL scores of 99 not out, jointly held by Georgia Voll and Sophie Devine. It was an innings defined by composure, precision, and ruthless execution.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru managed to keep Mumbai somewhat in check during the middle overs, with England seamer Lauren Bell delivering a disciplined spell to return figures of 2-21. However, Sciver-Brunt’s ability to find gaps consistently ensured Mumbai maintained momentum throughout the innings.
Mumbai’s total looked formidable, but Royal Challengers Bengaluru showed intent from the outset of their chase. Richa Ghosh played one of the finest innings of her career, smashing 90 from just 50 balls in a valiant attempt to keep her side in contention.
Despite Ghosh’s brilliance, RCB were always chasing the game as Mumbai’s bowlers applied relentless pressure. Hayley Matthews, who had earlier contributed a vital 56 with the bat, proved decisive with the ball as well. The West Indies all-rounder delivered an exceptional spell, finishing with remarkable figures of 3-10.
Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack executed their plans effectively, particularly in the latter stages of the innings. RCB needed a strong finish but lost wickets at crucial moments, ultimately ending on 184 for nine – 15 runs short of their target.
Sciver-Brunt’s influence extended beyond her batting heroics, as her leadership and calm presence helped guide Mumbai through tense moments in the field. Her all-round impact reinforced her status as one of the most valuable players in the league.
Speaking after the match, the 33-year-old reflected on the significance of her achievement while emphasising the team’s success over personal milestones.
“It was obviously a very special moment to reach a hundred, but more importantly it was about putting enough runs on the board for the team,” Sciver-Brunt said.
“I was just reacting to what the bowlers were giving me. Some bowlers suit your strengths more than others, so tactically it’s about making the most of those match-ups.”
Sciver-Brunt has been among the highest-paid players in the Women’s Premier League since its inception in 2023, earning an estimated £320,000 to £330,000. Performances like this underlined why franchises place such high value on elite all-rounders who can dominate games in multiple disciplines.
The match itself was a showcase of the growing quality and competitiveness of the Women’s Premier League. From Sciver-Brunt’s historic hundred to Ghosh’s fearless counterattack, the contest delivered entertainment worthy of the tournament’s rising global profile.
Mumbai Indians’ victory further strengthened their position in the competition and sent a clear message to their rivals. With players like Sciver-Brunt and Matthews firing in tandem, Mumbai look increasingly well-balanced and dangerous as the season progresses.
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defeat was disappointing but not without positives. Ghosh’s innings highlighted her maturity and finishing ability, while Bell’s bowling showed control against one of the strongest batting line-ups in the league.
As the WPL continues to grow, landmark moments like Sciver-Brunt’s century are shaping the tournament’s legacy and inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.
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