Women’s T20 President Cup: Three cheers for Niyati Jagtap

Mumbai Thunders’ Niyati Jagtap during her spell in the President Cup match v Mumbai Unicorns at Wankhede yesterday; (right) Simran Shaikh. Pics/Ashish Raje

Niyati Jagtap's three wickets for six runs helped produce an 88-run win for Mumbai Thunders over Mumbai Unicorns in the Women's T20 President Cup at the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday.

Chasing a challenging total of 136-4, Unicorns were bowled out for 48. They found themselves on the back foot right from the start, losing Charushree Todankar, who was yorked by Mansi Bodke.

The Unicorns lost wickets at regular intervals for frugal runs. All hopes were laid to rest when leg-spinner Niyati picked three wickets in the 11th over including that of top scorer Manali Dakshini (15). Vrushali Bhagat (2-7) and Palak Dharmsi (2-11) also contributed to Mumbai Thunders' win.

Earlier, opting to bat, the Thunders scored runs thick and fast with Simran Shaikh (29), Humairaa Kazi (28) and Vrushali Bhagat (28) being the leading scorers. Vrushali was adjudged player of the match for her contribution with bat and ball.

"It was a good pitch. The ball was turning and skidding. It helped me bowl well," Niyati told mid-day. When the WPL auction was brought up in the conversation with Simran, she said: "I didn't take pressure. I played the match as it came. If God is willing, it will happen."

It later transpired that Simran, 21, made it to the auction list released by the BCCI.

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