The upcoming match between the Mumbai Indians and UP Warriorz will be a highly anticipated event. Both teams have proven their ability to defeat the defending champions, RCB, at their home stadium. Fans can expect an intense battle between these two formidable opponents, with MI being considered the favorite before the tournament began. However, after seeing Warriorz’s recent performances, it is clear that this will not be a one-sided match.
Despite this, the Warriorz’s batting lineup remains unsteady. Their reliance on lower-order hitting has been evident in their previous two matches. The team has relied heavily on standout performances from individual players to secure victories, such as Chinelle Henry and Kranti Goud against Delhi Capitals, and Sophie Ecclestone during the Super Over against RCB.
Not only is Ecclestone a key bowler for them, but her economy rate of around 7 has also been crucial, even though she did not take any wickets in the last two games. In fact, she successfully defended eight runs in the Super Over.
MI will enter this match rejuvenated from a four-day rest. A major issue for them has been their opening duo, with a top partnership of just 22 so far this season. Bhatia’s recent scores have been 11, 8, and 8 in the past three games. Perhaps replacing Bhatia with G Kamalini at the top would bring more strength to their batting lineup.
Announcements regarding the team
If Vrinda Dinesh does not perform at the top of the order, Warriorz may consider substituting in Chamari Athapaththu. However, this would require Tahlia McGrath to be benched. Another option could be to give Poonam Khemnar a chance in the middle order.
Unless MI chooses to open with Kamalini, they are expected to stick with their current line-up.
Here is the potential lineup for the Mumbai Indians:
- Hayley Matthews
- Yastika Bhatia as wicketkeeper
- Nat Sciver-Brunt
- Harmanpreet Kaur as captain
- Amelia Kerr
- S Sajana
- G Kamalini
- Amanjot Kaur
- Sanskriti Gupta
- Shabnim Ismail
- 11.Parunika Sisodia
Keep your eyes on Amanjot Kaur and Sophie Ecclestone as they take the field.
Amanjot Kaur shone at the Chinnaswamy during the MI vs RCB match. Not only did she take 3 wickets for 22 runs in three overs, dismissing Ellyse Perry and Richa Ghosh, but she also scored an important 34* in the chase. As a result, she was recognized as the Player-of-the-Match. Despite being sidelined by injuries for eight months, Amanjot is determined to make a comeback for India through her strong performances in the WPL.
Sophie Ecclestone has demonstrated her worth in T20 line-ups, displaying her ability to add fast runs from the lower order. She has successfully executed this for England and Manchester Originals in the Hundred. Perhaps Warriorz should consider a daring move and promote her higher in the batting order?
