Harmanpreet Kaur’s shrewd decision to bowl first turned out to be a stroke of brilliance for the Mumbai Indians, immediately bearing fruit with an early breakthrough. Entrusting the pivotal task to Shabnim, Kaur’s choice was swiftly vindicated.
Shabnim exhibited a masterclass in in-swing bowling in the very first over, delivering a full-length ball that tempted Veda Krishnamurthy into a drive. However, the ball swung sharply, catching Veda off guard as it struck her pad.
Opting for the Decision Review System (DRS), the 31-year-old batter from Karnataka sought clarity, only to witness the ball tracking confirming Shabnim’s delivery crashing into the leg stump. With the decision upheld, Veda trudged back to the dugout, visibly disheartened by her early departure.
Shabnim replicated her earlier success in the third over, sending down a well-pitched length ball. Harleen Deol attempted to play across the swing but failed to connect, resulting in the ball hitting her pad. After a brief consultation with Gujarat Giants skipper Beth Mooney, Deol opted for a review.
— Shanaka Kundu (@KunduShanaka) February 25, 2024
— Shanaka Kundu (@KunduShanaka) February 25, 2024
The DRS came into play once again, revealing the ball’s impact on the top of the leg stump. With on-field umpire Gayathri Venugopalan once again raising the finger, the Mumbai Indians’ camp erupted with jubilation, showering praise on Shabnim for her stellar performance.