In the high-octane world of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), certain players rise to the occasion, delivering performances that not only secure victories but also etch their names into the annals of cricketing history. One such player is Amanjot Kaur, whose recent all-round display for the Mumbai Indians has solidified her status as a game changer.
Early Life and Career
Born on August 25, 2000, in Mohali, Punjab, Amanjot Kaur’s cricketing journey began in the bylanes of her hometown. With a right-handed batting style complemented by right-arm medium bowling, she showcased versatility from a young age. Her domestic career saw her representing Punjab, and later Chandigarh, before returning to Punjab. Her consistent performances did not go unnoticed, leading to her international debut for India in January 2023. In a memorable match against South Africa, Amanjot scored an unbeaten 41 off 30 balls, earning the Player of the Match award and announcing her arrival on the international stage.
Joining Mumbai Indians
The inaugural WPL auction in February 2023 marked a significant milestone in Amanjot’s career. The Mumbai Indians, recognizing her potential, secured her services for INR 50 lakh. This investment soon proved to be invaluable, as Amanjot seamlessly integrated into a team brimming with talent, including the likes of Harmanpreet Kaur. Her role as a middle-order batter and a wily medium pacer, especially adept in death overs, added depth and flexibility to the squad.
Match-Winning Performance Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru
February 21, 2025, witnessed a thrilling encounter between the Mumbai Indians and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Batting first, RCB posted a competitive total of 167/7, courtesy of Ellyse Perry’s impressive 81 runs. Amanjot Kaur was instrumental with the ball, delivering a stellar performance with figures of 3/22, effectively stifling the opposition’s momentum.
Chasing 168, Mumbai Indians faced early setbacks, but skipper Harmanpreet Kaur’s composed 50 and Nat Sciver-Brunt’s 42 steadied the ship. The turning point, however, was Amanjot’s mature and unbeaten 34 runs. Her ability to anchor the innings under pressure, especially after Harmanpreet’s dismissal, showcased her temperament and cricketing acumen. In the final over, with the match hanging in the balance, 16-year-old G. Kamalini, guided by Amanjot’s experience, sealed the victory with a boundary, leading to jubilant celebrations.
Leadership and Composure
Post-match, Amanjot credited the team’s collective effort and the guidance of senior players. She highlighted the calming influence of Harmanpreet Kaur, stating, “Harman di just told me, ‘Stay out there, you’ll do it easily.'” This reassurance from the captain not only boosted her confidence but also exemplified the cohesive spirit within the team. Amanjot’s ability to absorb pressure and execute her skills meticulously underscores her value to the Mumbai Indians.