Punjab Newsline, Sports:
Former India captain believes MI’s championship mindset remains strong, but other teams will pose stiffer challenges this season
Two-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) are once again considered the strongest contenders in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. However, former India captain Anjum Chopra feels that the upcoming season will be far more competitive, with other teams emerging stronger and ready to challenge MI’s dominance.
Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, Mumbai Indians have won two of the three WPL titles since the tournament began in 2023. According to Anjum Chopra, MI can certainly be challenged, as seen in previous seasons when teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Giants put them under pressure. Still, MI continue to be regarded as the “team to beat” due to their balance, experience, and winning mentality.
Anjum pointed out that the league has evolved significantly, with Indian players now matching the impact of overseas stars. The recent World Cup triumph by the Indian women’s team has boosted the confidence of domestic talent, making WPL 2026 even more competitive and closely contested.
Mumbai Indians once again boast a strong group of uncapped Indian players this season. Along with retained player G. Kamalini, the squad includes Sanskriti Gupta and Sajeevan Sajana, as well as new additions like Rahila Firdous, Poonam Khemnar, Triveni Vasistha, and Nalla Reddy. Anjum believes MI’s scouting system is among the best, and these young players could play a key role going forward.
The opening combination is another area of discussion for MI. With Yastika Bhatia moving to Gujarat Giants, Anjum suggested that Kamalini could be promoted to open the innings alongside Hayley Matthews. With experienced campaigners such as Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Amelia Kerr already solidifying the middle order, MI have flexibility in their batting lineup.
The tournament will be played at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, both known for batting-friendly pitches. Anjum noted that dew could become a decisive factor, making the toss crucial, with most captains likely to prefer bowling first to avoid the challenges of gripping the ball later in the evening.
Anjum also welcomed the changes in MI’s coaching staff. With Lisa Keightley taking over as head coach and Kristen Beams joining as spin-bowling coach, the team is expected to gain fresh perspectives while maintaining its championship culture. According to Anjum, although there will be pressure on MI as defending champions, the team will once again enter the tournament with a strong intent to lift the title.