Sanika Chalke showcased exceptional batting skills, guiding Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb to the final of the inaugural T20 Mumbai Women’s League with a convincing eight-wicket triumph over Thane Sky Risers at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The Tigers successfully chased down a target of 114 runs, with Sanika’s unbeaten 74 off 51 deliveries being the standout performance. She struck 11 boundaries and two sixes, steering her team to victory with five overs to spare.
In the chase, Sanika partnered well with Humairaa Kaazi at the start, contributing to a 35-run opening stand before facing a brief setback when Kashish Nirmal took two quick wickets in the fifth over. Despite the early blows, Sanika continued her aggressive approach, well-supported by Fatima Jaffer. The duo’s unbroken 82-run partnership for the third wicket ensured a comfortable win for the Tigers.
Aakash Tigers’ disciplined bowling effort restricted Thane Sky Risers to 113/9 in their allotted 20 overs after opting to field first. The Risers struggled to build momentum as wickets fell consistently. Vruushali Bhagat top-scored with 32 runs, while Mansi Patil and skipper Khushi Bhatia contributed 25 and 21 runs, respectively. However, apart from these efforts, the Risers’ batting lineup failed to make a significant impact against the Tigers’ well-organized attack.
Manali Dakshini and Batul Pereira shone with the ball for the Tigers, each claiming two wickets, while the entire bowling unit maintained pressure, restricting the Risers to a below-par total. With this victory, Aakash Tigers MWS secured their spot in the final, where they will face SOBO Mumbai Falcons at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
