Epic Comeback: UP Warriorz Shock Defending Champs Mumbai Indians in WPL 2026

 

Epic Comeback: UP Warriorz Shock Defending Champs Mumbai Indians in WPL 2026

In a thrilling turn of events at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on January 15, 2026, UP Warriorz Women pulled off one of the most memorable victories of the Women's Premier League (WPL) season so far defeating the defending champions Mumbai Indians Women by 7 wickets with 11 balls to spare.

Mumbai Indians Set a Competitive Target

Open to bat first, Mumbai Indians Women posted a solid total of 161/5 in their 20 overs. The backbone of MI's batting came from an exceptional innings by Nat Sciver-Brunt, who scored a commanding 65 runs and anchored their innings, while Amanjot Kaur chipped in with 38 runs.

Their mid-innings acceleration helped MI post a challenging target that looked defendable on the night.

Warriorz Rewrite Their Season

UP Warriorz, who had lost all their earlier matches in the tournament and were desperate for their first victory, responded brilliantly with the bat. Harleen Deol starred in the chase as the Player of the Match, smashing an unbeaten 64 off just 39 balls a display of calm aggression that powered UPW toward victory.

Partnering Deol in a devastating finish was Chloe Tryon, who tore into the bowling attack with a blistering 27 not out off 11 balls, putting the defenders under relentless pressure.

Together, this duo eased Warriorz past the target in just 18.1 overs, bringing hope back into their campaign.

Turning Point: Bowling Brilliance & Tactical Edge

UP Warriorz's bowlers executed a disciplined strategy from the outset, particularly in the powerplay, where they kept Mumbai's batters in check and applied early pressure. Although Mumbai gathered momentum through Sciver-Brunt's innings, the consistent line and length of the Warriorz bowlers ensured they never let the run rate run away.

This perfect blend of tactical bowling and aggressive batting highlighted Warriorz's intent a side that had struggled to register wins but showed today that they are not teams to be taken lightly.

What This Means for the WPL 2026

This victory marks UP Warriorz's first win of the season, a crucial breakthrough that could ignite their playoff hopes. On the flip side, the defending champions now face questions about consistency as they drop a rare game to a side struggling earlier in the season.

Deol's unbeaten knock so soon after a controversial "retired out" incident adds another emotional layer to her performance, providing fans with a resurgence story worthy of the big stage.

Key Stats At a Glance

MI Women: 161/5 in 20 overs

Nat Sciver-Brunt: 65 runs

Amanjot Kaur: 38 runs

UPW Women: 162/3 in 18.1 overs

Harleen Deol (not out): 64 runs

Chloe Tryon (not out): 27 runs

Result: UP Warriorz won by 7 wickets (11 balls remaining)

Player of the Match: Harleen Deol