In a match that will be etched in the annals of Women’s cricket league India, the WPL 2025 final delivered drama, tension, and ultimately, heartbreak for one team while crowning another as champions. Mumbai Indians emerged victorious in a nail-biting finish, defeating Delhi Capitals by 8 runs to claim their second WPL trophy in three years.
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A Tale of Two Cities: The Build-up
The stage was set for an epic showdown. Delhi Capitals, entering their third consecutive final, carried the weight of two previous runner-up finishes. On the other side stood the Mumbai Indians, the inaugural champions of 2023, hungry to reclaim their crown. The tension in the air was palpable as these two cricket powerhouses prepared for battle.
The journey to the final had been contrasting for both teams. Mumbai Indians had struggled early in the tournament, losing three of their first five matches. Their resurgence in the latter half of the league stage was nothing short of remarkable, winning four consecutive matches to secure their playoff berth. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, had been the picture of consistency, topping the league stage with seven wins from eight matches.
The Toss and First Innings Drama
Delhi Capitals’ captain Meg Lanning won the toss and elected to field, a decision influenced by the evening dew expected later. This put immediate pressure on Mumbai to set a challenging target. The start was less than ideal for the Mumbai Indians, with opener Hayley Matthews departing for just 11 in the third over, falling to Alice Capsey’s clever off-spin.
When Yastika Bhatia was dismissed for a quickfire 16 off 12 balls, Mumbai found themselves in early trouble at 27/2. The Delhi Capitals’ fielders were electric, saving crucial runs and building pressure with every dot ball.
Harmanpreet Kaur WPL Final Masterclass
When the pressure was at its peak, it was Mumbai Indians’ captain Harmanpreet Kaur who rose to the occasion. Walking in with her team in trouble at 27/2, Kaur crafted a magnificent 66 off 44 balls. Her innings, studded with calculated aggression and smart cricket, proved to be the difference between the two sides.
“In finals, it’s about holding your nerve,” Kaur said after the match. “We believed in our abilities and executed our plans perfectly.” Her partnership with Nat Sciver-Brunt, who contributed a valuable 30 runs, helped Mumbai post a challenging 149/7 in their 20 overs.
Kaur’s innings included seven boundaries and two sixes, with her 50 coming off just 36 balls. Her ability to find gaps in the field and accelerate when needed showcased why she’s considered one of the premier batters in world cricket. The Mumbai captain received excellent support from Amelia Kerr, who chipped in with a crucial 23 off 18 balls in the death overs.
Delhi Capitals WPL Runner-up: The Chase
The Delhi Capitals’ chase was a story of what could have been. Marizanne Kapp’s brilliant 40 off 26 balls kept their hopes alive, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues’ quick-fire 30. However, the Mumbai Indians’ bowling unit, led by Nat Sciver-Brunt’s exceptional 3/30, proved too strong in the crucial moments.
Delhi’s chase began with promise as Shafali Verma struck three boundaries in the first two overs. However, her dismissal for 16 in the third over, caught brilliantly by Amelia Kerr at cover, set the tone for a challenging pursuit. Captain Meg Lanning tried to anchor the innings but fell for 18, leaving Delhi at 47/2 in the seventh over.
The middle overs saw Delhi struggle to maintain the required run rate, with Mumbai’s spinners applying the squeeze. Radha Yadav’s economical spell (2/23 in 4 overs) proved crucial in this phase, as she removed the dangerous Alice Capsey just as she was looking to accelerate.
The Final Overs: Where Champions Are Made
As the match entered its final phase, the Mumbai Indians WPL champions showcased why they’re considered one of the most clinical teams in the tournament. With Delhi needing 32 off the last three overs, the match hung delicately in the balance.
Sciver-Brunt returned to dismiss Kapp in the 18th over, a wicket that significantly tilted the scales in Mumbai’s favor. Issy Wong’s penultimate over was a masterclass in death bowling, conceding just six runs and claiming the crucial wicket of Arundhati Reddy.
With 18 needed off the final over, Delhi’s hopes rested on Taniya Bhatia and Radha Yadav. Despite a valiant effort, including a six off the fourth ball, they fell short by 8 runs, finishing at 141/9.
Fan Atmosphere and Celebrity Presence
The stadium was a sea of blue and red, with fans from both franchises creating an electric atmosphere. The attendance of over 25,000 set a new record for women’s cricket in India, highlighting the growing popularity of the WPL. Bollywood celebrities and cricket legends were spotted in the stands, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
“The crowd support was incredible,” said Player of the Match Harmanpreet Kaur. “Hearing them chant our names gave us the extra energy we needed in those tough moments.”
A Dynasty in the Making
This victory marks Mumbai Indians’ second WPL title, establishing them as a dominant force in women’s cricket. The win is particularly special as it came against a team that had beaten them twice in the league stage. For Delhi Capitals, it was a third straight final defeat, a record they would rather not own.
Mumbai Indians’ coach Charlotte Edwards praised her team’s resilience: “This group has shown incredible character throughout the tournament. When we were struggling early on, they never lost belief. Today’s performance exemplifies the fighting spirit of this team.”
Impact on Women’s Cricket in India
The success of the WPL 2025 final transcends the result. Television viewership surpassed all previous records, with an estimated 12 million viewers tuning in for the final moments. Social media buzzed with conversations about the match, trending nationwide for hours after the game concluded.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah lauded the tournament’s success: “The WPL has exceeded our expectations. The quality of cricket, the fan engagement, and the platform it provides for young Indian cricketers is exactly what we envisioned when launching this league.”
Looking Ahead
The WPL 2025 final has set new benchmarks for women’s cricket in India. The quality of cricket, the intense competition, and the massive crowd turnout all point to a bright future for the sport. As Mumbai Indians celebrate their triumph, Delhi Capitals will regroup, knowing they have the quality to return stronger.
For now, the Mumbai Indians’ celebrations will echo through the cricket world, their victory a testament to their resilience and championship mentality. As for Delhi Capitals, their story of redemption awaits another season, but their consistent presence in finals speaks volumes about their quality and depth.
The WPL 2025 final will be remembered not just for Mumbai’s victory, but for showcasing the incredible growth of women’s cricket in India. As the dust settles on another thrilling season, one thing is clear: women’s cricket has found its rightful place in the spotlight.
FAQ:-
Who won the WPL final?
MUMBAI INDIANS ARE WPL CHAMPIONS
Mumbai Indians have won their second title in the Women’s Premier League in three seasons after defeating Delhi Capitals by eight eun in the final!
Who is Delhi Capitals’ captain in WPL?
Delhi’s reply could not have got off to a worse start with captain Meg Lanning and opening partner Shafali Verma both removed inside the first three overs. Jess Jonassen followed in the first over after the powerplay before Annabel Sutherland followed in the eighth. Another WPL final and another defeat loomed.
