Ellyse Perry delivered a crucial breakthrough for Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women in Match 20 of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, dismissing a dangerous Nat Sciver-Brunt at a critical juncture. The high-stakes encounter against Mumbai Indians Women on March 11 saw Perry’s experience and composure come to the fore when she struck on the penultimate delivery of the 15th over of Mumbai’s run-chase.
Sciver-Brunt, who was batting in sublime touch and was at 69, seemed to wrap up the match for Bengaluru. But she under-estimated Perry’s off-cutter that took the ball out of its pace. In an attempt to clear the boundaries, the English all-rounder lost balance and skied the ball instead of getting enough power. Perry, with nerves of steel, placed herself coolly and finished the high-stakes catch, guaranteeing a defining moment in the game.
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This dismissal proved the turning point, with Mumbai losing steam and falling short by nine runs. The win was especially special for Bengaluru, who were eager to end their WPL 2025 campaign on a high note following a poor five-game losing streak. Even as they won, they did not gain a direct entry to the final, giving Mumbai a difficult path ahead as well.
She can bat, she can bowl & she can catch (as well)! 😎
Ellyse Perry with the wicket #RCB wanted 🥳
Will this be the turning point of the match? 🤔
Updates ▶ https://t.co/8qeBt3Pbu7#TATAWPL | #MIvRCB | @RCBTweets pic.twitter.com/uEtcB2CTvf
— Women’s Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) March 11, 2025
In the match, Bengaluru’s batting was led by captain Smriti Mandhana and Perry, who scored key knocks to ensure their side got a competitive total. Mandhana, who had been finding form in the recent matches, seemed to have hit her groove back, taking command against the new ball with ease of strokeplay. Perry, who had initially played an anchor’s role, changed gears later in the innings, ensuring Bengaluru had a good foundation.
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The finishing touch came from Georgia Wareham, whose blistering 31-run cameo provided the late acceleration Bengaluru needed. Her explosive knock proved crucial in pushing the team’s total beyond Mumbai’s reach.
With this morale-boosting win, Bengaluru signed off their campaign with a sense of redemption, while Mumbai, despite their strong showing throughout the tournament, now face a tougher path in their bid for the WPL 2025 title.
