Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana delivered a stunning performance to lead her team to their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title, showcasing extraordinary determination and leadership. Mandhana played a breathtaking innings of 87 runs off just 41 balls, guiding RCB to a record-breaking chase of 204 runs against Delhi Capitals in the WPL 2026 final. The remarkable victory is being hailed as one of the most dramatic finishes in WPL history.
Mandhana’s Courageous Performance Under Illness
RCB head coach Malolan Rangarajan revealed after the match that Mandhana played the entire final while suffering from a severe flu and high fever. Despite her illness, the skipper delivered one of the finest innings of her career, demonstrating exceptional composure and match awareness.
Rangarajan praised Mandhana’s performance, describing it as extraordinary and inspiring. He highlighted how her timing, shot selection, and calm approach made the difficult chase appear effortless. According to the coach, Mandhana displayed remarkable mental strength and professionalism by stepping onto the field despite being seriously unwell.
Record-Breaking Run Chase Creates History
Delhi Capitals had set a massive target of 203 runs, powered by Jemimah Rodrigues’ impressive 57 and a late aggressive knock by Chinelle Henry. The total looked challenging, especially in a high-pressure final, but Mandhana’s fearless batting changed the momentum completely.
Mandhana formed a crucial 165-run partnership with Georgia Voll, which turned the match decisively in RCB’s favour. Voll contributed a brilliant 79 runs, providing strong support to the captain during the intense chase. The partnership became the turning point of the match, dismantling Delhi Capitals’ bowling attack and building confidence in the RCB camp.RCB successfully chased down the target with two balls remaining, marking the highest successful run chase in WPL and IPL finals history. The achievement also created a historic milestone as it became the first time a target above 175 runs was chased in any women’s T20 final.
Strong Team Contributions Seal the Victory
While Mandhana’s performance remained the highlight, RCB received valuable contributions from several players. Radha Yadav and Nadine de Klerk played important finishing roles, ensuring the team crossed the finish line without late setbacks.
The balanced team effort demonstrated RCB’s strong squad depth and strategic planning throughout the tournament. Their ability to perform under pressure played a key role in securing the championship.
Leadership and Dedication Behind Mandhana’s Success
Coach Rangarajan credited Mandhana’s consistent success to her relentless desire to improve her skills. He described her as someone deeply passionate about batting and constantly working on refining her technique. Her commitment to excellence and willingness to push through physical challenges highlight her leadership qualities and dedication to the team.
Mandhana’s performance in the final not only showcased her batting brilliance but also strengthened her reputation as one of India’s most dependable cricket leaders. Her ability to inspire teammates and perform under extreme conditions reflects her strong character and professional mindset.
Significance of RCB’s WPL Title Victory
RCB’s second WPL title reinforces the franchise’s growing dominance in women’s cricket. The historic run chase and Mandhana’s heroic innings are expected to remain among the most memorable moments in WPL history. The victory also highlights the increasing competitiveness and global appeal of women’s T20 cricket.
The final showcased high-quality performances, intense competition, and thrilling entertainment, further boosting fan engagement and interest in the Women’s Premier League. RCB’s triumph is likely to inspire young cricketers and strengthen the popularity of women’s cricket in India.
What Lies Ahead for RCB and Mandhana
Following this historic victory, RCB will aim to maintain their strong form in upcoming tournaments. Mandhana’s leadership and batting consistency will remain crucial for the team’s future success. Fans and cricket experts will closely watch her performances as she continues to lead from the front in domestic and international competitions.
The WPL 2026 final will be remembered as a defining moment in women’s cricket, showcasing resilience, leadership, and sporting excellence through Smriti Mandhana’s unforgettable innings.