Mumbai, (UNI) Gujarat Giants Women scripted a historic moment as they registered their first-ever win against Mumbai Indians Women in Women’s Premier League history, defeating the defending champions by 11 runs in the 19th match of WPL 2026 at the BCA Stadium here on Friday night, a result that also sealed their qualification for the Eliminator.
Opting to bat after winning the toss, Gujarat posted a competitive 167 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs. After an early setback with Beth Mooney falling cheaply, the innings was stabilised by Anushka Sharma (33) and Sophie Devine (25).
Captain Ashleigh Gardner then took control with a commanding 46 off 28 balls, peppering the boundary with seven fours and a six. Georgia Wareham provided the finishing flourish, remaining unbeaten on 44 off 26 deliveries to lift Gujarat to a challenging total.
For Mumbai, Amelia Kerr was the standout bowler with figures of 2 for 26, while Shabnim Ismail and Nat Sciver-Brunt claimed a wicket apiece.
In reply, Mumbai were jolted early, losing Hayley Matthews and Nat Sciver-Brunt inside the powerplay. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur mounted a lone but resolute resistance, smashing an unbeaten 82 off 48 balls with eight fours and four sixes.
Amelia (20) and Amanjot Kaur (13) offered brief support, but the required rate continued to climb as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Gujarat’s bowlers kept their composure in the closing stages, with Sophie Devine (2 for 23) and Georgia Wareham (2 for 26) applying sustained pressure. Ashleigh Gardner also chipped in with a crucial wicket.
The contest was effectively sealed in the final over when Rahila Firdous heaved a delivery through the leg-side for no more than a single, confirming Gujarat’s 11-run victory.
The win not only marked a landmark first triumph over Mumbai in WPL history but also propelled Gujarat into the Eliminator, capping a memorable night for the franchise.
