RCB Clinch WPL 2026 Title with Record-Breaking Run Chase Against Delhi Capitals

Vadodara, Feb 2026 : Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) were crowned champions of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 after pulling off a sensational run chase in a high-octane final against Delhi Capitals in Vadodara. Chasing a daunting target of 204, RCB produced a historic batting display to reach the target with six wickets in hand and two balls to spare, registering the highest successful run chase in WPL history.

The chase began with early nerves as opener Grace Harris departed cheaply for 9, giving Delhi Capitals an early breakthrough. However, what followed was one of the most dominant partnerships the league has ever witnessed. RCB captain Smriti Mandhana and Georgia Voll took complete control of the contest, stitching together a magnificent 165-run stand for the second wicket that turned the final decisively in RCB’s favour.

Mandhana led from the front with an extraordinary knock, playing with fearless intent and impeccable timing. The left-hander was in sublime form, smashing 87 runs off just 41 deliveries. Her innings was laced with 12 boundaries and three towering sixes, as she dismantled the Delhi bowling attack with authority. Georgia Voll complemented her captain perfectly, combining composure with aggression. Voll scored a fluent 79 off 54 balls, striking 14 fours and rotating the strike smartly to keep the pressure firmly on Delhi.

With the target well within sight, RCB appeared to be cruising before a sudden twist added late drama to the contest. Voll was dismissed against the run of play, followed quickly by Richa Ghosh, who managed just 6 runs. Mandhana then fell heartbreakingly short of a well-deserved century, sparking brief hopes in the Delhi camp. However, Nadine de Klerk and Radha Yadav kept their composure under pressure. Radha sealed the memorable victory in style, smashing a boundary in the final over to trigger jubilant celebrations among players and fans alike. Chinelle Henry was the standout bowler for Delhi, finishing with two wickets.

Earlier in the match, Delhi Capitals had produced a commanding batting effort after being asked to bat first. Captain Jemimah Rodrigues anchored the innings with a classy 57 off 37 balls, showcasing elegant stroke play and calm leadership. Laura Wolvaardt added momentum with a brisk 44, while Lizelle Lee chipped in with a steady 37 at the top of the order. The finishing touches were provided by Chinelle Henry, whose explosive unbeaten 35 off just 15 deliveries propelled Delhi past the 200-run mark to 203/4. For RCB, Lauren Bell stood out with a disciplined bowling spell, conceding only 19 runs in her four overs.

The victory marks RCB’s second WPL title, following their maiden triumph in 2024. Remarkably, both championship wins have come against Delhi Capitals in the final. For Delhi, the heartbreak continues, as they finished runners-up for the fourth consecutive season. For RCB, however, the night belonged to courage, character, and a record-breaking chase that will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in WPL history.

Team Maverick