Bengaluru, February 25

Mumbai Indians rode on skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Amelia Kerr’s half-century partnership to cruise to a five-wicket win against Gujarat Giants in their Women’s Premier League match here today.

Set a winning target of 127, Harmanpreet (46 not out) and Amelia (31) strung together a 66-run stand after the defending champions had lost three quick wickets. Harmanpreet hit a huge six as MI finished the game in 18.1 overs.

Earlier, veteran pacer Shabnim Ismail and leg-spinner Amelia produced fine spells, helping Mumbai Indians restrict Gujarat Giants to an under-par 126/9.

Ismail (3/18), who has retired from international cricket, showed that her fire has not dwindled while opening Mumbai’s bowling. Amelia then ripped through the lower-order for finish with a four-wicket haul.

“When you are bowling later on in the innings, you can get hit but also get wickets,” said Amelia, who was named the Player of the Match.

Harmanpreet said: “We have a very balanced side, all the all-rounders are the best in their countries.”

Brief scores: Gujarat Giants: 126/9 in 20 overs (Kerr 4/17, Ismail 3/18); Mumbai Indians: 129/5 in 18.1 overs (Harmanpreet 46*, Kerr 31, Sciver-Brunt 22).