Vadodara, India – The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) women's team captured their second Women's Premier League (WPL) title on Thursday, February 5, 2026, defeating the formidable Delhi Capitals (DC) by six wickets in a thrilling final at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Vadodara. Captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front, smashing a magnificent 87 runs to anchor RCB's successful chase of a challenging target.
Delhi Capitals, batting first, posted a competitive total of 203 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The target set the stage for a high-octane chase, with RCB needing a strong batting performance to clinch the coveted trophy. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully chased down the target, scoring 204 runs for four wickets with two balls to spare, sealing their victory in the final over of the match.[en+4]
Mandhana's Masterclass Secures Victory
Smriti Mandhana's captain's knock was the highlight of the final. Her explosive innings of 87 runs provided the crucial momentum and stability for RCB's chase. Mandhana displayed exceptional skill and temperament, hitting boundaries and rotating the strike effectively under immense pressure. Her performance ensured that RCB remained in contention throughout the chase, systematically dismantling the Delhi Capitals' bowling attack. This remarkable innings played a pivotal role in RCB's second WPL championship.
Mandhana's leadership throughout the tournament was also a key factor in RCB's success. She steered the team through the league stage and playoffs, culminating in this decisive final win. The victory marks a significant achievement for Mandhana, adding another major trophy to her captaincy record. RCB had previously won their first WPL title in 2024, making them one of the most successful teams in the league's short history with two championships.[en+2]
Delhi Capitals' Consistent Run Ends in Runner-Up Finish
The Delhi Capitals, despite another strong season, faced heartbreak in the final for the fourth consecutive time. They have been consistent contenders, reaching the final in all four WPL seasons since the league's inception in 2023. The team finished as runners-up in 2023, 2024, 2025, and now 2026, showcasing their consistent performance but an inability to cross the final hurdle.[usacricketz+5]
In the 2026 final, Delhi Capitals' batters put up a fighting total, but it ultimately proved insufficient against RCB's determined chase. The team, led by captain Jemimah Rodrigues for the 2026 season, aimed to break their runner-up streak. However, RCB's batting prowess, particularly Mandhana's explosive knock, proved too strong. Delhi Capitals received prize money of ₹3 crore as the runner-up team.[usacricketz+7]
Tournament Highlights and Awards
The WPL 2026 season ran from January 9 to February 5, 2026, with matches held across Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. Theleague phase and playoffs saw intense competition among the five franchises. Royal Challengers Bengaluru's journey to the final included navigating a challenging league stage. They finished fourth in 2025 but reshaped their squad in the November 27, 2025 mega auction to strengthen their side for the 2026 season.[timesofindia+2]
RCB's win earned them the winner's prize money of ₹6 crore. WhileSmriti Mandhana's 87 runs were central to the final's outcome, the Player of the Season award for WPL 2026 went to Sophie Devine of Gujarat Giants. The WPL continues to elevate women's cricket, providing a high-stakes platform for top international and domestic talent.[timesofindia+5]
