Why Was Nicola Carey Benched in Mumbai Indians' Clash Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru?

In a tactical shift for Mumbai Indians during the 16th match of the 4th edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, New Zealand leg-spinner Amelia Kerr has replaced the injured Australian all-rounder Nicola Carey against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, led by skipper Smriti Mandhana. RCB won the toss and elected to field first, with Kerr slotting in at number 6 after Carey’s niggle forced her out. Mumbai capitalised on the opportunity, smashing a formidable 199/4 in their 20 overs.

Amelia Kerr’s inclusion marks a boost for Mumbai’s bowling attack, especially after her teammate Carey’s all-round contributions lit up the tournament. The 32-year-old Carey had been a standout in six matches and six innings, amassing 149 runs at a strike rate of 141.90 and an average of 37.25 with the bat. Her bowling prowess added seven wickets at an average of 25.42 and an economy of 8.90 across the same span. She picked up the injury while batting against the Delhi Capitals, managing just one over with the ball.

Amelia Kerr steps in with impressive credentials of her own. In four innings across six matches, the Kiwi has scored 54 runs at a strike rate of 120 and an average of 27. Her spin has been even more lethal, claiming 10 wickets at an average of 14.70 and an economy of 7.35, numbers that could prove decisive on Vadodara’s pitches.

Kerr entered at number 6 and faced just one ball, scoring 1 run after Nat Sciver-Brunt scripted history by becoming the first-ever centurion in the WPL. Mumbai Indians posted 199/4. Questions linger over her role after opening experiments this season yielded little success for Mumbai’s top order; none of their pairs have clicked consistently. With RCB chasing under the lights, Kerr’s leg-spin could disrupt Mandhana’s side early.

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This replacement underscores Mumbai’s depth in a high-stakes clash, blending Carey’s power-hitting void with Kerr’s wicket-taking edge. As the chase unfolds, all eyes remain on whether Kerr can turn the game Mumbai’s way.