Mumbai Indians defeated Gujarat Giants by 9 runs in a thrilling encounter. Even Bharti Fulmali's explosive 61-run innings couldn't secure victory for Gujarat.
Sports News: Mumbai Indians registered another impressive win, defeating Gujarat Giants by 9 runs. In this exciting match played at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai Indians, batting first, posted a b total of 179 runs. Gujarat Giants had a poor start to their chase, losing half their side for just 70 runs.
However, Bharti Fulmali's explosive 61-run knock made the match thrilling, but she couldn't take her team to victory. Gujarat Giants could only manage 170 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing the match by 9 runs. This win further strengthens Mumbai Indians' position in the playoffs.
Gujarat's Last League Match Ends in Defeat
This was Gujarat Giants' final league match of the WPL 2025, and a win would have secured them a direct entry into the final. However, Mumbai Indians' bowlers made a superb comeback in the final overs, turning the tide of the match. Specifically, in the 17th over, Amelia Kerr dismissed the dangerous-looking Bharti Fulmali, putting immense pressure on Gujarat's lower order, preventing them from reaching the target. On the other hand, this victory significantly increases Mumbai Indians' chances of reaching the final directly. However, they now need to ensure that even with a potential loss against RCB, their net run rate doesn't fall below Delhi Capitals.
Bharti Fulmali's Stormy Innings, But in Vain
Chasing a target of 180 runs, Gujarat Giants had lost 5 wickets for just 70 runs. Then, Bharti Fulmali launched a blistering attack, smashing a half-century in just 22 balls. She scored a total of 61 runs, including 8 fours and 4 towering sixes. Her whirlwind innings briefly swung the match in Gujarat's favor, but she fell prey to a slower ball when 38 runs were still needed. Her dismissal virtually ended Gujarat's hopes.
Mumbai Indians' Bowlers Turn the Match Around
Batting first, Mumbai Indians made a b start and posted a substantial score of 179 runs. Their bowlers then took regular wickets in the middle overs, putting Gujarat on the back foot. Amelia Kerr and Issy Wong bowled exceptionally well, especially in the death overs, guiding Mumbai to this crucial victory.
Brief Scores
Mumbai Indians: 179/5 (Nat Sciver-Brunt 47, Harmanpreet Kaur 39; Kim Garth 2/30)
Gujarat Giants: 170/8 (Bharti Fulmali 61, Harleen Deol 28; Amelia Kerr 3/24)
Result: Mumbai Indians won by 9 runs.
