Mumbai Indians clinched a vital 15-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 16th match of the Women’s Premier League 2026, producing a performance that will be remembered for years.
The highlight of the night was a sensational unbeaten century from Nat Sciver Brunt, who became the first player in WPL history to score a hundred, cementing her status as one of the tournament’s greatest batters.
Batting first after losing early wickets, Mumbai needed stability and momentum, both of which Sciver Brunt delivered in style.
Walking in with the score at 16 for 1, the England all-rounder played with composure and authority, carefully assessing conditions before shifting gears.
Her knock of 100 not out from 57 balls was a perfect blend of timing, placement, and controlled aggression, featuring 16 boundaries and a maximum.
Hayley Matthews provided excellent support at the other end, scoring a fluent 56 off 39 deliveries.
The duo stitched together a match-defining 129-run partnership, neutralising RCB’s bowling attack and ensuring Mumbai maintained a strong scoring rate through the middle overs.
Harmanpreet Kaur’s presence further added depth, helping MI reach an imposing total of 199 for 4, despite Lauren Bell’s disciplined spell that yielded two key wickets.
Chasing 200, Royal Challengers Bengaluru endured a disastrous start as Mumbai’s bowlers struck early and often. The top and middle order collapsed under pressure, leaving RCB struggling at 35 for 5.
Tight lines, smart field placements, and constant scoreboard pressure ensured that Bengaluru never truly settled into the chase.
Richa Ghosh attempted to spark a remarkable comeback with a courageous, unbeaten 90, displaying remarkable intent and power in the latter half of the innings.
Her resistance briefly lifted hopes, but the target proved too steep, and RCB eventually finished on 184 for 8 at the end of their 20 overs.
Beyond the result, the match marked a historic milestone for the league. Sciver Brunt’s century surpassed the previous best WPL score of 99 and underlined her remarkable consistency across seasons.
Already leading the run charts this year, she continues to redefine excellence in the tournament, combining individual brilliance with match-winning impact.
This victory not only strengthened the Mumbai Indians’ campaign but also reinforced Nat Sciver Brunt’s legacy as the most accomplished player in WPL history, one who rises on the biggest stage and delivers when it matters most.
