The Women’s Premier League 2026 is ready to return with high-octane action, and the opening match itself promises fireworks. Defending champions Mumbai Indians Women will lock horns with Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women in a blockbuster clash on January 9 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
With star players, a heated rivalry, and a championship pedigree on both sides, the season opener is expected to set the tone for another thrilling edition of women’s T20 cricket.
Mumbai Indians enter WPL 2026 as one of the strongest teams on paper. The return of South African speedster Shabnim Ismail has significantly boosted their bowling attack, adding raw pace and aggression. At the top, Hayley Matthews provides explosive starts, while Nat Sciver-Brunt offers consistency and all-round value.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, meanwhile, will aim to spoil the champions’ party. Led by Smriti Mandhana, RCB boasts a balanced squad with power hitters and versatile bowlers. Richa Ghosh’s fearless batting, Grace Harris’s explosiveness, and Shreyanka Patil’s all-round skills give the team flexibility across departments. RCB will look to start strong and make an early statement against their biggest rivals.
MI vs RCB WPL 2026: When to Watch
The MI vs RCB WPL 2026 match will be played on Friday, January 9. The toss will take place at 7:00 pm IST, while the match will begin at 7:30 pm IST.
MI vs RCB WPL 2026: Where to Watch
The live telecast of the MI vs RCB WPL 2026 match will be available on the Star Sports network in India. Fans can also watch the live streaming on the Jio Hotstar app and website.
MI vs RCB WPL 2026 Venue
The WPL 2026 opening match between Mumbai Indians Women and Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women will be held at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai.
MI vs RCB WPL 2026: Toss Timing
The toss will take place at 7:00 pm IST, while the match will begin at 7:30 pm IST.
MI vs RCB WPL 2026 LIVE Streaming
Cricket fans in India can watch the live telecast of the MI vs RCB WPL 2026 match on the Star Sports network. Live streaming will be available on the Jio Hotstar app and website, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action.
With star-studded squads, a fierce rivalry, and championship ambitions, the WPL 2026 opener between the Mumbai Indians and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru promises a thrilling start to the new season.
Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Head-to-Head Record
The MI vs RCB rivalry has grown into one of the most exciting matchups in WPL history. The two sides have faced each other six times so far. Mumbai Indians hold the advantage with four wins, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru have secured two victories. Every contest between them has been closely fought, adding extra intensity to the season opener.
MI vs RCB Probable Playing XI for WPL 2026 Opener
Mumbai Indians Women are expected to field a strong XI featuring Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Amelia Kerr, Amanjot Kaur, Sajeevan Sajana, G Kamalini, Shabnim Ismail, Saika Ishaque, Nicola Carey, and Poonam Khemnar.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women are likely to line up with Smriti Mandhana (captain), Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Nadine de Klerk, Grace Harris, Georgia Voll, Radha Yadav, Lauren Bell, Arundhati Reddy, Pooja Vastrakar, and Dayalan Hemalatha.
