WPL 2023: 'Feeling like dream come true' — Harmanpreet Kaur on tournament opener

India and Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur termed the start of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) a “dream come true” as her side crushed Gujarat Giants by 143 in the inaugural season opener at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Batting first, MI posted a mammoth total of 207/5 with Harmanpreet (65 off 30 balls) scoring the first half-century of the tournament. In reply, Gujarat Giants were bowled out for just 64 with skipper Beth Mooney retired out due to a knee injury. The only batter to offer some resistance was Dayalan Hemalatha who scored 20 not out off 23.

Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Harmanpreet praised her teammates for not letting the big occasion get the better of them.

“It was a brilliant start. Feeling like dream come true….first day. We were hoping all things going our way, and they were in our favour,” said Harmanpreet at the post-match presentation.

“We kept things simple and clear. Told players to play natural. Obviously its a big day for women’s cricket but it was all about backing yourself.”

Harmanpreet was also declared the player of the match for her innings which came at a strike rate of 217.

“I just thought I will watch the ball and back myself. I will not think too much, and instead react to the situation,” she said.

The @ImHarmanpreet-led @mipaltan are off the mark in the #TATAWPL in style! #MI win the opening game against #GG by 143 runs