Mumbai Indians (MI) will face the in-form UP Warriorz (UPW) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, in a crucial Women’s Premier League (WPL) fixture on Wednesday. UPW is riding high after two consecutive wins, including a thrilling Super Over victory against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their last match.
Meanwhile, MI also secured a dramatic last-over win against the defending champions in their previous outing. With both teams eyeing a step forward in the playoff race, this match promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
Yastika Bhatia’s form a concern for Mumbai Indians
A major talking point for MI will be the form of opener Yastika Bhatia. Known for her aggressive intent at the top, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter has struggled to provide solid starts this season. In three innings, she has managed just 27 runs at a strike-rate of 100.0, losing her wicket twice to pace (in-swinging deliveries from Shikha Pandey and Kim Garth) and once to spin.
In T20 cricket, powerplay is crucial for setting the foundation, and MI will need more from Yastika in this phase. With youngster G Kamalini impressing in recent games, MI could consider a change at the top. Kamalini, who has showcased her composure under pressure, is a like-for-like replacement and has proven herself in the U19 setup with consistency and aggression.
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Can Yastika turn things around?
Yastika’s dip in form is surprising, considering she had a decent run before the WPL. During the recent WBBL season with the Melbourne Stars, she scored 154 runs in six innings at an average of 25.66 and a strike rate of 104.76. After recovering from an injury, she performed well in the Senior Women’s One Day Challenger Trophy, scoring 156 runs in four innings for India C, including two fifties.
However, in WPL matches at this venue, she has scored only 129 runs in five innings at an average of 25.80 and a strike rate of 132.98, including one fifty. Against UP Warriorz, her numbers are also underwhelming—105 runs in five innings at an average of 21.00 and a strike-rate of 110.52.
One key battle to watch will be Yastika against Sophie Ecclestone and Grace Harris, both of whom have troubled her in previous encounters in this format. If she fails to deliver again, it could impact not only MI’s campaign but also her chances of making India’s squad for the upcoming 50-over World Cup at home.
MI hold a slight edge with a 3-2 lead in head-to-head encounters against UPW. However, with the Warriorz in strong form, they could pose a serious challenge. Will an in-form UPW dent MI’s campaign, or will Yastika find redemption and lead Mumbai to victory? The stage is set for an intriguing battle.
Also Read: Onus on GG’s top-order batters to step up at the Chinnaswamy
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