The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 witnessed a major turnaround on Friday as Delhi Capitals Women (DC-W) delivered a clinical all-round performance to defeat Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W) by 7 wickets, handing the table-toppers their first defeat of the season. The victory not only halted RCB’s winning momentum but also significantly strengthened Delhi’s push toward the playoffs.
RCB’s Strong Start Comes to a Sudden Halt
Coming into the match unbeaten and brimming with confidence, Royal Challengers Bengaluru were expected to continue their dominant run. However, Delhi Capitals had other plans. After winning the toss, DC captain opted to field first, a decision that paid rich dividends on a slow and gripping surface at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara.
RCB struggled to gain momentum right from the start as Delhi’s bowlers maintained tight lines and applied relentless pressure. Despite a fighting knock from skipper Smriti Mandhana, wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals.
RCB Innings: A Struggle Against Disciplined Bowling
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women were bowled out for 109 runs in 20 overs, a total well below par considering their strong batting lineup.
- Smriti Mandhana top-scored with a composed 38 runs, showing resistance while wickets fell around her.
- The middle order failed to convert starts, unable to counter Delhi’s disciplined bowling attack.
Delhi Capitals Bowling Highlights:
- Nandani Sharma was the standout performer, picking up 3 crucial wickets, breaking RCB’s backbone.
- Marizanne Kapp bowled a miserly spell, using her experience to choke the scoring rate.
- Chinelle Henry chipped in with timely breakthroughs, ensuring RCB never recovered.
RCB’s inability to form partnerships proved costly, and the innings ended without a late flourish.
Delhi Capitals’ Calm and Calculated Chase
Chasing a modest target of 110, Delhi Capitals began cautiously after losing an early wicket. However, the chase was soon brought under control through a mature and composed batting display.
- Laura Wolvaardt anchored the innings with an unbeaten 42 runs, displaying excellent temperament and shot selection.
- Captain Jemimah Rodrigues played a vital supporting role, scoring 24 runs and stabilizing the innings during a crucial phase.
The duo stitched together a match-winning partnership that effectively sealed the game. Delhi Capitals eventually reached 111/3 in 15.4 overs, winning with 26 balls to spare.
Player of the Match: Marizanne Kapp
Marizanne Kapp was deservedly named Player of the Match for her impactful all-round performance. Her tight bowling spell laid the foundation for Delhi’s dominance, putting RCB under pressure from the very start.
What This Result Means for the Points Table
- RCB Women suffer their first loss of WPL 2026, but remain strong contenders in the tournament.
- Delhi Capitals Women gain a massive boost, improving their position in the standings and keeping their playoff hopes very much alive.
- The result adds further excitement to the league, with the race for the top four intensifying.
A Turning Point in WPL 2026
This match could prove to be a turning point in the WPL 2026 season. Delhi Capitals showcased depth, discipline, and composure, while RCB received a timely reminder that consistency will be crucial as the tournament progresses.
With league matches coming thick and fast, both teams will look to regroup quickly as the battle for playoff spots heats up.
