Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by Smriti Mandhana, had a strong run in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, securing a spot in the Grand Final against the Delhi Capitals. By finishing at the top of the league table, RCB advanced directly to the title match at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara, skipping the Eliminator.
RCB’s successful WPL 2026 campaign
Key player contributions
- Nadine de Klerk: The South African all-rounder led the team as the Purple Cap holder with 15 wickets. Her 63* in the season opener highlighted RCB’s resilience.
- Smriti Mandhana (Captain): With strong tactical decisions, Mandhana was a key batter and provided necessary leadership during tough matches.
- Lauren Bell: The English pacer excelled in the early stages, leading the group with 104 dot balls and setting the stage for spin bowlers.
- Grace Harris: A standout performer, Harris scored 75 runs and took 2 wickets in the final league match, solidifying RCB’s top position.
RCB’s journey to the WPL 2026 final: Match breakdown
RCB had a successful league campaign, winning 6 out of 8 matches, showcasing both skill and determination to finish first and qualify directly for the Grand Final.
Match 1: RCB vs Mumbai Indians: RCB kicked off their campaign with a thrilling last-ball victory, chasing 155 runs. After a shaky start at 75/5, Nadine de Klerk hit 18 runs in the final over to secure a 3-wicket win.
Match 2: RCB vs UP Warriorz: RCB’s strong bowling resulted in a 12-run win. After scoring 148 runs, spinners Shreyanka Patil and Asha Sobhana restricted the Warriorz in the final overs.
Match 3: RCB vs Gujarat Giants: RCB continued their winning streak, reaching 162 runs with 7 wickets in hand, thanks to a solid partnership between Mandhana and Harris.
Match 4: RCB vs Delhi Capitals: In a closely contested match, RCB triumphed over Delhi, defending a total below 140. Lauren Bell’s performance was key in securing this victory.
Match 5: RCB vs Gujarat Giants: RCB secured their playoff spot with a 40-run win, highlighted by Sophie Devine’s quick half-century.
Match 6: RCB vs Delhi Capitals: RCB experienced their first loss as they managed only 109 runs, with the Capitals chasing down the total comfortably.
Match 7: RCB vs Mumbai Indians: RCB faced another loss despite a great 90-run performance from Richa Ghosh, falling short of the target set by MI.
Match 8: RCB vs UP Warriorz: RCB clinched the top spot with a brilliant performance, as Nadine de Klerk took 4/22 and Grace Harris scored 75 runs in just 37 balls, securing a place in the Final.
The WPL 2026 Grand Final: RCB vs Delhi Capitals
By finishing first, RCB avoided the Eliminator and heads into the final as a well-rounded team, having five different “Player of the Match” winners over eight games.
