As the Women’s Premier League 2025 approaches its final stages, playoff positions are already decided. However, the game between Gujarat Giants and Mumbai Indians on Monday is significant as it could determine who will be the first team to reach the final.
Gujarat Giants, who were previously at the bottom of the standings like their past seasons, have surprisingly climbed up after winning three consecutive matches. Now, they are competing with Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, both traditionally strong teams, for the top position.
For Gujarat, the situation is straightforward: losing to MI means playing in the Eliminator. Winning by 17 or more runs, or successfully chasing a target in 18 overs (assuming a first innings score of 180), would allow them to overtake Delhi Capitals based on Net Run Rate, increasing their chances of directly qualifying for the final. Mumbai Indians, currently in third place, can improve their standing with a win against the Giants. Even with a loss, they could still aim for the top spot in their remaining game.
The competition is moving to a venue known for being favorable to batters, suggesting bowlers will have limited influence on these flat pitches. Both teams will need strong batting performances. Gujarat’s batting has been inconsistent, while Mumbai is yet to demonstrate their full potential in this area. This match on MI’s home ground could be the perfect opportunity for both teams to showcase their batting strength and finish the tournament with a strong performance.
Venue: Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai
Match Expectation: Expect a good batting pitch with possible dew. The toss might be crucial. A high-scoring game is likely if batting lineups perform well.
Team Updates:
Mumbai Indians: Under Harmanpreet Kaur, MI has been experimenting with promoting Amelia Kerr in the batting order to have a left-handed option alongside Yastika Bhatia in the middle order. This strategy benefits MI, and they might continue it against the Giants.
Probable XI: Hayley Matthews, Amelia Kerr, Nat-Sciver Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Yastika Bhatia, S Sajana, Amanjot Kaur, G Kamilini, Sanskriti Gupta, Shabnim Ismail, Parunika Sisodia
Gujarat Giants: After achieving a three-match winning streak, a first for them in three seasons, the Giants are unlikely to change their strategy for this important match. However, promoting Pheobe Litchfield in the batting order could be considered.
Probable XI: Beth Mooney, Harleen Deol, Phoebe Litchfield, Ash Gardner, Deandra Dottin, Dayalan Hemalatha, Kashvee Gautam, Bharti Fulmali, Meghna Singh, Tanuja Kanwar, Priya Mishra
