Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) etched their name deeper into Women’s Premier League history on Wednesday, successfully defending their title with a gripping 6-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) in the TATA WPL 2026 final at the BCA Stadium.
Chasing a daunting 204 — the highest total ever posted in a WPL final — RCB reached 204/4 in 19.4 overs, finishing the job with two balls to spare in a match that swung dramatically until the very end.
Captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front with a blistering 87 off 41 balls, while Georgia Voll provided rock-solid support with 79 off 54. The duo forged a monumental 165-run second-wicket partnership — one of the highest in WPL history — that tilted the game decisively in RCB’s favour after an early breakthrough.
DC had posted 203/4 after being asked to bat first, powered by Jemimah Rodrigues’ classy 57 off 37 balls and a late assault from Chinelle Henry, who smashed an unbeaten 35 off just 15 deliveries. Laura Wolvaardt contributed a brisk 44 before being run out on the final ball, while Lizelle Lee (37) and Shafali Verma gave DC a flying start.
Despite the late fireworks — including 24 runs off one over — RCB’s bowlers kept things relatively tight, with Nadine de Klerk, Arundhati Reddy, and Sayali Satghare picking up crucial wickets.
The chase began steadily, but Mandhana and Voll soon took control with aggressive strokeplay. Mandhana, who became the leading run-scorer in WPL 2026 history during her innings, struck boundaries at will, while Voll mixed caution with elegant drives and pulls.
DC fought back in the death overs, with Chinelle Henry claiming two key wickets, including Mandhana’s prized scalp. Quick dismissals of Richa Ghosh and others injected tension, leaving RCB needing 10 off the final over. But composure prevailed as the lower order sealed the win amid roaring celebrations.
This victory marks RCB’s second consecutive WPL title, cementing their dominance in women’s franchise cricket and delivering joyous scenes for their passionate fanbase.
Post-match, a beaming Mandhana said the team thrived on keeping plans simple under pressure, while DC skipper Jemimah Rodrigues reflected on a valiant effort despite falling short.
With back-to-back crowns, RCB have firmly claimed the throne in the TATA WPL — and women’s cricket in India reaches new heights of excitement.
