In a historic step for WPL 2026 match 10The Mumbai Indians Have decided to rest their primary strike bowler, Shabnim IsmailFor a high-stakes rematch against UP Warriors On 17th January.
WPL 2026: Why is Shabnim Ismail not playing today’s UP-W vs? mi-w match
Shabnim Ismail has been the undisputed leader of the Mumbai Indians bowling attack in the 2026 edition, proving that her pace demon persona is as lethal as ever. In the four matches played so far, Ismail has consistently broken the 125 km/h barrier, currently holds the record for the second most dot balls in this edition and has maintained a phenomenal economy rate of 5.81.
His ability to provide early breakthroughs has been clinical, highlighted by his dismissals of top-class openers Smriti Mandhana And meg lanning During the powerplay phases. Statistically, he has already taken three wickets at less than six runs per over, a feat that has made him one of the toughest bowlers to score runs in the league. his performance against gujarat giants Match 6 was particularly notable, where he bowled 18 dot balls in a four-over spell, effectively chasing the target and sealing a comfortable win for his team. By resting him today, Mumbai are not only protecting an experienced athlete but are banking on the fact that his early-season dominance has already put him in a strong position, which will allow him to recharge ahead of the final stages of the tournament.
“Today, given the circumstances, we have brought Mathews back into the team and Ismail is rested today. This is mainly because of the circumstances and because we are playing a one-day match. We feel that Mathews is going to play a huge role on this pitch.” Harmanpreet said during the toss.
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Hayley Mathews returns for Mumbai Indians against UP Warriors
The decision to rest Ismail has finally solved the selection headache associated with Hayley Matthews, who has returned to the XI after a brief period of ‘workload management’ following a shoulder injury. The change sees a major change in the team balance, moving away from a fast-paced strategy towards a more spin-dominant and batting-heavy configuration, featuring three world-class all-rounders in Sciver-Brunt, Mathews and Kerr.
captain Harmanpreet Kaur The toss highlighted that Ismail’s pace is a unique asset, but his form Nicola Carey It became impossible to keep her out, who has been a match winner with both bat and ball. Matthews returns to his familiar opening slot, greatly adding to the team’s stability against the spin-heavy attack led by the Warriors. Sophie Ecclestone. This ‘selection squeeze’ reflects the luxury Mumbai have, as they can afford to rest the world’s fastest bowler and still field a lineup including four of the most influential international stars in women’s cricket. While the absence of Ismail’s intimidation factor is a risk, the added insurance of Matthews’ power-hitting and off-spin provides a different kind of tactical edge to this Saturday evening’s blockbuster.
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This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
