WPL 2026: Richa's heroics in vain as Mumbai Indians beat RCB by 15 runs

Richa Ghosh produced a breathtaking display in Vadodara, hammering a sensational 90 off 50 balls, but her heroics ultimately went in vain as Mumbai Indians edged Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 15 runs to stay alive in the WPL 2026 playoffs race. Chasing a daunting target of 200, RCB found hope through Richa’s fearless strokeplay, as she counter-attacked with power and poise to keep the contest alive deep into the innings.

Earlier, Nat Sciver-Brunt turned Monday night into a personal landmark and a defining moment for MI. The England all-rounder scripted history by becoming the first batter to score a century in the Women’s Premier League, anchoring MI to a commanding total and powering a crucial victory that lifted the two-time champions from fourth to second on the points table.

The loss leaves RCB under mounting pressure. Smriti Mandhana’s side now face a must-win final league match against UP Warriorz to secure a direct path to the playoffs, while MI march on with renewed belief and momentum.

Sent



in to bat, Mumbai’s innings began in measured fashion, yielding just 38 runs in the powerplay. The early loss of Sajeevan Sajana to Lauren Bell briefly tilted momentum RCB’s way, but it also set the stage for a decisive partnership. Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews absorbed the pressure, rebuilt calmly and then took control with clinical precision.

Once set, the pair shifted gears seamlessly. Sciver-Brunt reached her half-century in 32 balls, Matthews followed in 34, and together they dismantled the RCB attack with a blend of power and placement. Their 131-run stand for the second wicket, stitched in just over 12 overs, transformed the contest.

Matthews’ dismissal for a fluent 56 off 39 offered fleeting relief, but Sciver-Brunt remained immovable. She surged to her maiden WPL hundred off 57 balls, her unbeaten 100 embellished with 16 fours and a six. A late cameo from Harmanpreet Kaur ensured MI finished with a daunting 199 for four. Bell’s 4-0-21-2 stood out in an otherwise difficult night for RCB’s bowlers.