Harmanpreet misses out, Ellyse Perry returns as Mumbai to bowl first against RCB in blockbuster WPL clash

Image Source : MI/X Nat Sciver-Brunt and Smriti Mandhana at the WPL game on March 2, 2024

After shocking defeats in their last games, both Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore clash in the mega WPL 2024 clash at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. Mumbai Indians won the crucial toss and elected to bowl first but entered the game with their skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and star bowler Shabnim Ismail.

Natalie Sciver-Brunt walked out for a toss again and revealed that both Harmanpreet and Shabnim are yet to recover. Both Harmanpreet and Shabnim missed the previous game against UP Waariorz where MI suffered a heavy seven-wicket loss.

"We are gonna have a bowl first, typically in this competition so far, it has been easier to chase," Sciver-Brunt said after winning the toss. "No, it’s the same team as the other night and we are hopeful that those with niggles are clear to play the next game. We weren't aggressive in the three departments and that was what the dressing room echoed. Hopefully, we get things right in this game."

Meanwhile, the legendary Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry returned to the playing XI after missing out on the last game due to illness. Both RCB and MI have recorded two wins in their opening three matches in the Women's Premier League 2024 and will boost to the top of the points table with a win in the upcoming ninth game of the season.

"Only one change, Ellyse Perry is fit and she is back in the team," Smriti said at the toss. "It was a good wicket when we played in the last game and I think it’s going to play well. For us it’s about doing the right and simple things, it’s about playing good cricket and do the right things in all departments. If we do right things, we would be able to defeat anyone."