Royal Challengers Bengaluru once again broke Delhi Capitals’ hearts as WPL 2026 delivered a final for the ages. Delhi, batting first, produced a commanding 203/4 — the highest total ever in a WPL final — and for a moment it felt like destiny had finally turned in their favour. But cricket, as it often does, had other plans.
Delhi Capitals’ innings was built around Jemimah Rodrigues’ fluent 57, supported by crucial contributions from the middle order. Calm, composed and precise, Rodrigues paced her knock beautifully, peppering the boundaries with elegance rather than brute force. By the time DC finished on 203/4, the trophy seemed closer than ever — especially in a WPL 2026 final where pressure often dictates outcomes.
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Smriti Mandhana sets the tone
If pressure existed, Smriti Mandhana didn’t acknowledge it. Her 87 was the defining innings of the WPL 2026 final, a masterclass in timing, placement and fearless intent. After a quiet start, Mandhana shifted gears seamlessly, dismantling Delhi’s bowling attack with a mix of classical drives and audacious sweeps. Her footwork unsettled the bowlers, forcing errors in length that she punished ruthlessly.
Georgia Voll complemented Mandhana perfectly. Her 79 was authoritative and composed, ensuring the required run rate never spiralled out of control. Together, the duo turned a daunting chase into a statement, reminding everyone why RCB have become the ultimate big-match team in WPL 2026.
Delhi’s near-perfect night unravels
For Delhi Capitals, this was another cruel chapter. Despite dominating large portions of the match in WPL 2026, they once again fell short on the biggest stage. Rodrigues’ innings stood out for its technical excellence, especially her calculated takedown of the spinners. Yet, even a near-flawless batting display couldn’t shield DC from RCB’s relentless response.
Boundaries, belief and Bell
RCB’s chase featured at least one boundary in every over — a staggering statistic on a night where 407 runs were scored in WPL 2026. Amid the carnage, Lauren Bell’s spell quietly stood out, conceding runs at an astonishing economy despite going wicketless.
In the end, WPL 2026 belonged to Royal Challengers Bengaluru once more. Delhi were valiant, but Mandhana’s brilliance ensured it was RCB who lifted the trophy again, reinforcing their growing legacy in WPL 2026 history.
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