Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 title on Thursday, beating Delhi Capitals by six wickets in a historic final. At the BCA Stadium, RCB defeated Delhi in a final for the fourth straight time, clinching their second title in three years after chasing a huge 204, led by captain Smriti Mandhana’s blazing 87.
How did RCB win the WPL 2026 final?
RCB won the title by successfully completing the highest run-chase in WPL history, reaching 204/4 with two balls to spare. The victory was anchored by a record 165-run second-wicket partnership between captain Smriti Mandhana (87 off 41 balls) and Georgia Voll (79 off 54). Needing 10 runs from the final over, all-rounder Radha Yadav won the win with back-to-back boundaries against Chinelle Henry, triggering scenes of celebration.
WPL 2026: Key Moments in the Final Over
The final over provided a dramatic twist. As Radha Yadav struck the winning runs, the bails were dislodged at the striker’s end, creating a “heartbeat of pure terror.” The decision was referred to the third umpire, who confirmed it was not a hit-wicket dismissal, allowing RCB’s celebrations to commence fully. This secured their place alongside Mumbai Indians as the joint-most successful franchise in WPL history with two titles.
WPL 2026: How did Delhi Capitals fall short yet again?
Delhi Capitals posted a formidable 203/4, driven by Jemimah Rodrigues (57 off 37) and Laura Wolvaardt (44). However, their bowling attack had no answer for the Mandhana-Voll onslaught. This defeat marks a crushing, familiar agony for DC, solidifying their status as the tournament’s most consistent side—topping the table three times in four seasons—yet remaining without a trophy after four final appearances.
WPL 2026: RCB Series Highlights
RCB’s path to the championship was distinguished by domination and determination. They topped the league stage with six victories from eight matches, because to attacking batting and consistent bowling.
Dominant Start: They opened the season with five straight victories, including a last-ball thriller against the Mumbai Indians, in which Nadine de Klerk scored 18 runs in the final over.
Mid-Season Composure: After securing early qualification, they absorbed back-to-back losses but responded emphatically. In a must-win final league game, they chased a target against UP Warriorz in just 13.1 overs to secure the top spot and a direct berth in the final.
Key Contributors: Beyond Mandhana’s Orange Cap-winning 377 runs, Nadine de Klerk (16 wickets) was the team’s heartbeat, Lauren Bell was the “Powerplay Queen” with 104 dot balls, and Richa Ghosh provided lethal finishing, including a career-best 90.
WPL 2026 RCB: Star Players of the Tournament
Smriti Mandhana: The captain set the tone, piling up 377 runs and playing the key knock in the final.
Nadine de Klerk: A true all-rounder, she took 16 wickets and contributed valuable runs, including a winning 4/22 session.
Lauren Bell: She finished with the best economy rate of the tournament at 5.53, using the powerplay to control games.
Georgia Voll: Her decisive 79 in the final complemented Mandhana perfectly, creating a record stand that sealed the chase.
WPL 2026: FAQs
Q: When and where was the WPL 2026 final staged?
A: It was held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
Q: How many WPL championships has RCB claimed?
A: RCB have secured two WPL titles (2024 and 2026), level with Mumbai Indians for the most titles.
Q: What historic feat did RCB achieve in the final?
A: RCB achieved the biggest successful run chase in WPL history, chasing down a target of 204.
