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Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sajeevan Sajana top-scored with a counter-attacking 45 off 25 balls and made the most of being dropped twice early on as Mumbai Indians (MI) posted a competitive 154/6 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening match of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Friday.

On a tacky pitch, incisive new-ball spells by Lauren Bell, Linsey, and Nadine de Klerk had reduced the defending champions to 67/4 after 11 overs. But Sajana’s 82-run stand off 49 balls with Nicola Carey (40) pushed them beyond the 150-mark. For RCB, Nadine picked 4-22, and they need 155 to win, with dew expected to aid their chase.

Lauren delivered a superb opening spell to give RCB the early edge. The England pacer bowled a brilliant maiden first over and constantly troubled Amelia Kerr via outswinger and fuller length balls before finally dismissing her for a scratchy four off 15 balls.