Finals are known to test nerves and define character—and in the 2026 Women’s Premier League final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Smriti Mandhana delivered a performance worthy of the biggest stage. Chasing the highest total ever set in a WPL final, Mandhana produced a masterclass, guiding RCB to a six-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals and sealing the franchise’s second WPL title in three seasons.
In doing so, RCB created history—becoming the first franchise in Indian cricket to hold both the IPL and WPL titles simultaneously, with their men’s and women’s teams reigning champions.
Mandhana leads a record chase
Tasked with chasing a daunting 204, Mandhana seized control of the chase with authority and composure. Her 41-ball 87 was a captain’s knock in every sense—calculated early, ruthless in the middle overs and decisive when the pressure peaked. She anchored the innings while ensuring the required rate never spiralled out of control.
RCB did not overpower Delhi Capitals with reckless hitting. Instead, they constructed the chase methodically through a commanding 165-run partnership between Mandhana and Georgia Voll, which proved to be the backbone of the pursuit.
Voll rises to the occasion
RCB were jolted early with the loss of Grace Harris for nine, but Voll responded with poise and intent. Entering in the second over, she showcased clean striking and composure, racing to a 50 off 37 balls. While Mandhana initially played the supporting role, Voll’s confidence grew with every over.
Her innings of 79 off 54 balls, studded with 12 boundaries and three sixes, came at a strike rate of 212.2. It was a defining performance from a batter who had endured an inconsistent season but chose the biggest stage to rediscover her best form.
Late drama, calm finish
Delhi Capitals clawed back briefly in the death overs, dismissing Voll, Richa Ghosh (6) and Mandhana in quick succession. Suddenly, RCB needed 10 runs in the final over. Showing nerves of steel, Radha Yadav and Nadine de Klerk held their composure to seal the match with two balls to spare, sparking jubilant celebrations.
Delhi’s record-setting total
Earlier, Delhi Capitals had produced a batting display of exceptional quality. Led by captain Jemimah Rodrigues, DC posted a massive 203/4—the highest total ever recorded in a WPL final and also the highest WPL score at the venue.
Openers Lizelle Lee and Shafali Verma overcame a cautious start to dominate the Powerplay, taking DC to 53 without loss. Lee’s back-to-back sixes off Sayali Satghare set the tone, while Shafali looked set for a big innings before falling for 20.
Rodrigues’ standout knock
Rodrigues then took centre stage, producing one of her finest innings of the season. Her 57 off 37 balls shifted the momentum decisively in Delhi’s favour during the middle overs. She later stitched a crucial 76-run partnership with Laura Wolvaardt, keeping the scoreboard moving relentlessly.
After Rodrigues’ dismissal, Chinelle Henry provided the finishing flourish with a blistering 35 off just 13 balls, propelling DC past the 200-run mark.
A final to remember
Despite Delhi’s formidable total, RCB’s calm execution under pressure—led by Mandhana’s brilliance—proved decisive. The final will be remembered not just for records, but for the composure, clarity and character that defined Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s championship triumph.
