The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday, February 21, had an unusual atmosphere at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium. Never in the WPL’s history had such a large crowd gathered to support their team during a match. Thousands of fervent cricket fans transformed the stadium into a swarm of activity and enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere of unmatched energy.
The pressure became so great that MI captain Harmanpreet Kaur had to cover her ears to block out the roaring applause and encouragement from the RCB fans.
A roar of enthusiasm greeted each wicket, boundary, and unbelievable occasion, making the evening one that the women’s cricket community will never forget.
After winning the toss, RCB captain Smriti Mandhana chose to bat first and got off to a respectable start with a solid 26 from 13 balls. Ellyse Perry, however, was the woman who stole the show. With an incredible 81 runs off 43 deliveries, she was the innings’ mainstay. With 11 fours and two enormous sixes in her innings, which was full of traditional stroke play, RCB managed to score a respectable 167 runs off 7 wickets in 20 overs.
The Chinnaswamy crowd continued their abiding love and support as MI came in to chase in the second innings. The stadium blew out with every wicket taken, every dot ball delivered by RCB’s bowlers, creating an experience beyond imagination with the home advantage. Nevertheless, MI batters held up their nerve, and regardless of the adverse crowd, chased down the target, losing 6 wickets.
Despite RCB falling out a little less, the match will forever be cherished for the humongous crowd support, the passionate aura, and the growing popularity of women’s cricket. The view experienced at Chinnaswamy, Bengaluru tested the essence of women’s cricket and is all set to soar high.
This wasn’t just a normal cricket game, it was a testament to women’s sports.
India
