The BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, buzzed with excitement on February 3, 2026, as the WPL 2026 Eliminator took place between Gujarat Giants (GG) and Delhi Capitals (DC). In a critical match for the Capitals, Jemimah Rodrigues guided her team to a convincing seven-wicket win. Chasing a target of 169, Delhi completed the chase in just 15.4 overs, earning their fourth straight appearance in the WPL final, where they will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Delhi Capitals’ journey under Jemimah Rodrigues
The 2026 season marked a significant change for Delhi as Rodrigues took over as captain. Her leadership has emphasized a team-oriented approach, focusing on strategy and empowering young players like Nandini Sharma. Despite early challenges and two close defeats to Gujarat, Jemimah’s calm leadership helped the team regain their confidence and perform at the right moment.
Rodrigues shone in the Eliminator. After her bowlers, led by Chinelle Henry who took three wickets, contained the Giants, Jemimah made a crucial contribution of 41 runs off 23 balls. Her combination of aggressive batting and smart placement ensured the team’s strong start wasn’t wasted. Under her leadership, the team has evolved from a group of stars into a united, resilient squad focused on the process rather than just the results.
DC’s path to the final in WPL 2026: Match summaries
DC’s journey to the 2026 final was a mix of ups and downs, as they faced a tough schedule:
- Match 1 vs MI: The season began with a disappointing 50-run loss to the defending champions Mumbai Indians. Chasing 200, DC’s batsmen faltered early, leaving the middle order with too much to do.
- Match 2 vs GG: A heartbreaking 4-run defeat in a thrilling chase of 209 saw DC come close but unable to secure their first victory.
- Match 3 vs UPW: This match marked a turning point as DC clinched a convincing 7-wicket win, with Laura Wolvaardt hitting the final boundary to achieve victory.
- Match 4 vs RCB: In a tactical victory, DC defeated the league leaders thanks to Marizanne Kapp, who excelled with both bat and ball.
- Match 5 vs MI: DC avenged their earlier defeat, securing a 30-run win, marked by a half-century from Rodrigues to signal her return to form.
- Match 6 vs GG: Another close encounter resulted in a 3-run loss, highlighting the need for better execution in tense situations.
- Match 7 vs UPW: A strong all-round showing led to a 5-wicket win, keeping DC in playoff contention, with Kapp taking three wickets.
- Match 8 vs RCB: In a crucial match, Shafali Verma delivered a powerful performance, helping secure a top-three spot and a place in the Eliminator.
- The Eliminator (Match 9) vs GG: In their best performance of the season, DC dominated the Giants with a seven-wicket win, with Lizelle Lee and Verma forming an 89-run opening partnership.
With the final set for February 5, 2026, the Capitals are once again on the brink of ending their title drought. After three consecutive second-place finishes, the team under Rodrigues is ready to claim the trophy.
