RCB Triumphs in WPL 2026 Final
In a nail-biting finale, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title by defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) by six wickets on February 5, 2026. The match, held at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Vadodara, saw RCB complete a record chase of 204 runs with just two balls to spare, adding another chapter to this competitive league.
RCB’s victory marks their equal standing with Mumbai Indians as the most successful franchises in WPL history, both boasting two titles. The final match was a clash of determination and skill, showcasing the talents of India’s premier women cricketers.
A Disappointing Fourth Final for Delhi Capitals
For Delhi Capitals, the result was yet another disappointment as they ended up as runners-up for the fourth consecutive season. This persistent struggle in finals has raised questions about their ability to convert strong performances into championships.
Delhi Capitals started the match on a high note by posting a formidable score of 203 for four after they elected to bat first. Captain Jemimah Rodrigues played a pivotal role, scoring 57 runs off 37 balls, while Chinelle Henry’s late flourish of 35 runs from 15 balls helped push the total beyond 200.
The Match Breakdown
Delhi Capitals Innings
Delhi Capitals got off to a promising start with Shafali Verma and Lizelle Lee providing quick runs. The team was steady throughout, with Rodrigues anchoring the innings. After a strong foundation, Laura Wolvaardt contributed an unbeaten 44 runs off 25 balls, while Lee added 37 runs off 30 deliveries.
Despite a few wickets falling, especially the crucial one of Shafali Verma, who scored 26 runs before being dismissed, the Capitals maintained a solid momentum. The innings was punctuated with smart boundaries and timely partnerships, particularly the 76-run stand between Rodrigues and Wolvaardt.
RCB’s Response: A Record Chase
Leading the Charge
In response, RCB faced early adversity, losing Grace Harris for just nine runs. However, captain Smriti Mandhana and Georgia Voll stepped up, turning the tide of the match. Mandhana’s explosive 87 runs off just 41 balls were integral to RCB’s chase, as she dominated the field and targeted DC’s bowlers.
The duo added an incredible 165 runs for the second wicket, effectively countering the pressure with relentless scoring. Voll, who scored 79 runs from 54 balls, provided the necessary support to ensure RCB remained ahead in the game.
Match Turning Points
RCB reached 100 runs halfway through their innings, needing 104 runs from the remaining 60 balls. By the 14th over, they had accelerated to 150 runs, showcasing their intent and control over the innings. Mandhana reached her half-century in a mere 23 balls, continuing to find boundaries with ease.
A brief glimmer of hope for DC arrived when Voll fell to Minnu Mani, but RCB’s resilience meant they concluded the chase successfully, repeating their victory against DC in the 2024 final.
Post-Match Insights
Following the match, Mandhana expressed great pride in her team’s performance, stating, “Every player contributed at crucial moments, and this win is a testament to our hard work and determination.” She also acknowledged the sportsmanship displayed by DC, highlighting their consistent performance through the seasons.
DC Captain Jemimah Rodrigues, while disappointed, emphasized the journey her team had, saying, “We played well throughout the tournament, and we will learn from this experience to come back stronger next season.”
Future Prospects and Reactions
This season’s final has set the stage for an exciting future in women’s cricket, with franchises now looking to bolster their squads through upcoming player auctions. The WPL has continued to build momentum, attracting attention both nationally and globally.
Officials from the cricket board underscored the need for investment in women’s cricket, aiming to enhance the profile of the game. Reports suggest that RCB’s victory could stimulate higher viewership and sponsorships for future seasons, contributing to the league’s growth.
Conclusion
The 2026 WPL final not only showcased thrilling cricket but also reflected the competitive spirit that defines the tournament. As RCB celebrates their second title, Delhi Capitals will be looking to reassess their strategies and return stronger in the next season. The landscape of women’s cricket continues to evolve, promising exciting matches for fans around the world.