MI aim for direct WPL final entry, RCB seek to avoid wooden spoon

It's the final league game of the season with contrasting objectives for the teams. MI, with five wins and two losses, aim for a direct entry into the final. A win will ensure this at the cost of Delhi Capitals. MI must also be wary of playing on successive days, which could be a physical challenge.

RCB, on the other hand, have had a season to forget. Already eliminated, they will hope to sign off with a win to avoid the wooden spoon.

MI's Smooth Campaign

MI's campaign has been smooth so far, but the opening combination has been a concern. The promotion of Amelia Kerr hasn't really worked either. MI will want better opening partnerships. Nat Sciver-Brunt has been consistent, while skipper Harmanpreet seems to be warming up well.

The bowling has been on song for MI, with Kerr and Shabnim Ismail as the frontline wicket-takers. Sciver-Brunt and Amanjot Kaur have also played their roles, making MI's attack efficient.

RCB's Struggles

RCB's struggles have been due to Mandhana's poor season with the bat and inconsistent performances from other batters. The bowling has also been up and down.

On paper and form, this contest looks heavily in favor of MI. But RCB have it in them to spoil their opponents' party.

Probable XIs

MI: Hayley Matthews, Amelia Kerr, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur(c), Amanjot Kaur, Yastika Bhatia(wk), Sajeevan Sajana, G Kamalini, Sanskriti Gupta, Shabnim Ismail, Saika Ishaque

RCB: Smriti Mandhana(c), Sabbhineni Meghana, Danny Wyatt-Hodge, Ellyse Perry, Heather Graham/Georgia Wareham, Richa Ghosh(wk), Kanika Ahuja, Charlie Dean/Kim Garth, Sneh Rana, Renuka Singh Thakur.

Match Details

• When: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 7:30 PM IST
• Where: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at Cricket Club of India, Mumbai
• What to expect: Runs are always on offer at the Brabourne Stadium with its true surfaces and short boundaries. Dew could be a factor and might force the captains to chase.