New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) The Mumbai Indians are still in the race for a playoff spot in the WPL 2026 after securing a victory against the table leaders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Former Indian captain Mithali Raj and ex-New Zealand star Katey Martin expressed their views on MI's vital win, asserting that the defending champions regaining their rhythm poses a significant threat to other teams.

The Mumbai Indians managed to fend off a remarkable late challenge from Richa Ghosh, winning by 15 runs in an exhilarating encounter at the BCA Stadium on Monday. This victory boosted the defending champions to the second position on the points table.

“This match was crucial for the Mumbai Indians, and they needed their key players to deliver. The opening partnership was essential for a strong start. Although they lost an early wicket, it was important for Hayley Matthews to contribute runs and she also excelled with the ball, taking three wickets. Such all-round performances are what players like her are expected to provide,” Mithali noted on JioStar.

When RCB stumbled to 35/5 during their chase of 200, Richa mounted a stunning counter-offensive, scoring 90 runs off 50 balls, including 10 fours and six sixes, nearly leading her team to a remarkable win, but the initial setbacks proved too great despite her late surge.

Regarding Richa's solo effort for RCB, Mithali added, “Richa Ghosh's late onslaught was impressive. She needed support for a partnership but had none, so she took it upon herself to hit boundaries and sixes, especially in the final overs.

“No one expected her to bring the match so close, given the pressure she was under without a batting partner capable of hitting big shots. If she had had someone like Nadine de Klerk with her, they might have successfully chased down the target.”

Batting first, Nat Sciver-Brunt made history by scoring the first century in WPL, leading MI to a formidable total of 199/4.

Meanwhile, Katey emphasized that the five-day break was beneficial for the Mumbai Indians. “This team thrives on confidence. They depend on their star players to perform in critical moments, and they have done just that. Momentum is vital in tournament cricket, and gaining it towards the end makes a team hard to stop. As they approach their final game against the Gujarat Giants, they have addressed many issues, but results also hinge on the outcome of the Delhi Capitals-Gujarat Giants match,” she remarked.

“I would like to see their death bowling improve, but considering their position, they felt secure enough to finish the game. However, these are warning signs for other teams. A Mumbai side filled with match-winners finding their stride suggests that the break allowed them to reset before these final crucial games.”

On Nat Sciver-Brunt being among the finest players globally and her inaugural TATA WPL century, Katey stated, “It was her first T20 hundred, which is incredible considering it seems she scores centuries consistently. She executed her strengths beautifully, skillfully handling spin and manipulating the field expertly. It was a masterclass in batting. Her celebration for her son Theo, thanking him for being in India, was a touching moment. She’s playing with remarkable confidence and composure.”

“She knows her options well and understands the match situation. She began her innings at a strike rate of around one hundred and then accelerated from the 11-over mark onwards. That’s mature, intelligent batting. If I were a young player watching at home, I would aspire to bat like her, as she embodies what it takes to be the world’s best player.”