The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wrapped up their WPL 2025 campaign in style with a spirited 11-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in the final league match. Despite being out of contention for the playoffs, RCB’s collective effort ensured that MI missed out on a direct final berth, sending Delhi Capitals (DC) straight to the WPL 2025 final. MI will now have to face Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator.

Match Context & Importance

Heading into this game, MI had a clear objective—chase down 200 runs to secure their place in the final. A win would have helped them leapfrog DC on the points table, giving them a direct entry. On the other hand, RCB, already eliminated from the tournament, aimed to finish on a high note. This scenario added extra intensity to the clash, making it a must-watch encounter.

RCB’s Explosive Batting Performance

RCB’s innings was built on a solid foundation laid by Smriti Mandhana (53 off 34 balls) and Sabbhineni Meghana (26 off 12 balls). The duo gave RCB a flying start, attacking MI’s bowling unit early. While Mandhana found her rhythm after a few low-scoring outings, Meghana took on Hayley Matthews, ensuring RCB had momentum in the PowerPlay.

The middle overs saw Ellyse Perry (49* off 38 balls) playing the anchor role, ensuring stability. However, the real game-changer was Georgia Wareham (31* off 10 balls), whose late blitz propelled RCB to 199/3 in 20 overs. Wareham smashed five fours and a six in the final two overs, proving to be the difference-maker in the end.

MI’s Struggles in the Run Chase

MI’s chase began on a shaky note as Sneh Rana struck twice, removing both openers within the PowerPlay. Despite a promising start from Hayley Matthews (3 fours in an over off Perry), MI found themselves at 45/2 after six overs. This put immense pressure on the experienced duo of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Harmanpreet Kaur to revive the innings.

However, Kim Garth dismissed Harmanpreet (20 off 18) with a well-executed leg-cutter, further denting MI’s chase. Sciver-Brunt fought back valiantly, bringing up another half-century while taking MI past the 100-run mark. She became the first batter in WPL history to score 400+ runs in a season.

With 71 needed off 31 balls, MI’s hopes faded when Sciver-Brunt top-edged a delivery and departed for 69. Rana further tightened RCB’s grip with the dismissal of Yastika Bhatia, leaving MI struggling. Despite a late cameo from Sajeevan Sajana, MI fell short as Perry held her nerve in the final over to seal RCB’s victory.

Tactical Breakdown & Key Turning Points

• RCB’s Intent with the Bat: Unlike previous games, RCB played aggressively throughout the innings. Mandhana’s early attack and Wareham’s finishing touch gave them an above-par total.
• Sneh Rana’s Impact: Her crucial breakthroughs in the PowerPlay removed both openers and built pressure on MI early.
• Kim Garth’s Game-Changing Spell: The dismissal of Harmanpreet halted MI’s momentum when they were looking to rebuild.
• Ellyse Perry’s Final Over Recovery: Despite conceding two sixes and two wides, she bounced back to defend 12 off the last three balls, securing the win for RCB.

Fan Reactions & Social Media Buzz

The cricketing world took to social media to praise RCB’s performance. Fans lauded Georgia Wareham’s explosive cameo and Sneh Rana’s match-winning spell.

🚀 “What a way to finish the season! Georgia Wareham was on fire in those last two overs!”

🔥 “Ellyse Perry, calm under pressure! What a thrilling final over to deny MI!” –

RCB’s win may not have impacted their playoff chances, but it played a crucial role in shaping the WPL 2025 playoffs. With MI now forced into the Eliminator, Delhi Capitals benefit from the direct final qualification.

Brief Scores

RCB W 199/3 in 20 overs (Smriti Mandhana 53, Ellyse Perry 49*, Hayley Matthews 2/37)
MI W 188/9 in 20 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 69, Sneh Rana 3/26, Kim Garth 2/33)
RCB won by 11 runs