India, March 7 -- A fiery exchange between Mumbai Indians skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and UP Warriorz's Sophie Ecclestone ignited controversy during their Women's Premier League (WPL) clash on Thursday, forcing the on-field umpire to step in and defuse tensions.

The incident unfolded at the end of the 19th over when umpire Ajitesh Argal informed Harmanpreet that her team would be allowed only three fielders outside the circle in the final over due to a slow over rate. The decision irked the MI captain, leading to a brief argument with the umpire.

Kiwi all-rounder Amelia Kerr, visibly upset with the ruling, joined the conversation in support of her captain.

As the discussion heated up, Ecclestone, who was at the non-striker's end, walked t...