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Key Takeaways

1🏏 Nat Sciver-Brunt became the first player to score a century in WPL history with an unbeaten 100 off 57 balls.
2🎯 Hayley Matthews delivered a crucial all-round performance with 56 runs and 3-10 bowling figures.
3💰 Sciver-Brunt remains one of WPL's highest-paid players at £320,000–£330,000, justifying her value with historic performances.
4⭐ Richa Ghosh's 90 off 50 balls for RCB showcased her rising status in women's cricket despite the defeat.
5📊 Mumbai Indians' total of 199-4 set a formidable target that proved decisive in the 15-run victory.

"Nat Sciver-Brunt makes history with an unbeaten hundred for Mumbai Indians against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the first century in Women's Premier League history."

Nat Sciver-Brunt Makes History with First-Ever WPL Century as Mumbai Indians Defeat RCB

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt etched her name into Women's Premier League history on Sunday, becoming the first player to score a century in the tournament as Mumbai Indians secured a commanding 15-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium.

A Historic Knock for the Ages

Sciver-Brunt's unbeaten 100 off just 57 deliveries was a masterclass in T20 batting. The 33-year-old all-rounder dispatched 16 boundaries and one maximum, dismantling the RCB bowling attack with precision and power.

Her century eclipsed the previous WPL highest scores of 99 not out by Georgia Voll and 99 by Sophie Devine, finally breaking through the elusive three-figure barrier that had stood since the tournament's inception in 2023.

"It was a special moment to get that milestone but, more importantly, the runs on the board for the team. I was just reacting to the balls that were given to me. Tactically, some bowlers might be more of your strength than others."

Mumbai Indians' Commanding Total

Powered by Sciver-Brunt's historic innings, Mumbai Indians posted an imposing 199-4 from their 20 overs. The England captain received excellent support from Hayley Matthews, who contributed a quickfire 56 to the cause.

For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, England seamer Lauren Bell was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 2-21 from her spell, but it proved insufficient against Sciver-Brunt's relentless assault.

RCB's Valiant Chase Falls Short

Chasing 200, Royal Challengers Bengaluru found themselves in a precarious position despite a sensational knock from Richa Ghosh. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter smashed 90 off just 50 balls, keeping her side in the hunt until the final overs.

However, Mumbai's bowling attack, led by the exceptional Hayley Matthews, proved too strong. The West Indies all-rounder delivered a devastating spell of 3-10, strangling RCB's middle and lower order to restrict them to 184-9.

Sciver-Brunt's WPL Journey

The Tokyo-born all-rounder has been a cornerstone of Mumbai Indians since the WPL's inaugural season in 2023. As one of the league's highest-paid players, earning between £320,000–£330,000, Sciver-Brunt has consistently justified her price tag with performances of the highest caliber.

With 12 Tests, 137 T20 internationals, and 129 ODIs for England under her belt, Sciver-Brunt brings invaluable international experience to the franchise. This historic century further cements her status as one of the premier all-rounders in women's cricket.

Looking Ahead

This victory bolsters Mumbai Indians' campaign as the WPL continues to captivate audiences. Sciver-Brunt's record-breaking knock will undoubtedly inspire teammates and set a new benchmark for batting excellence in the tournament.

For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, despite the defeat, Richa Ghosh's near-century provides optimism for the matches ahead. The young Indian talent's ability to take on world-class bowling augurs well for both her franchise and national team aspirations.

As the WPL progresses, all eyes will be on whether Sciver-Brunt can maintain this exceptional form and lead Mumbai Indians to glory.