DC Sets Stiff Target
Delhi Capitals posted a challenging total of 203 for 4 in their 20 overs, largely thanks to a blistering innings from Jemimah Rodrigues. Rodrigues, who
scored 57 off just 37 deliveries, anchored her team's innings with a display of fluent stroke-play. She was well supported by contributions from Lizelle Lee and Chinelle Henry, who added valuable quick runs towards the end, with Henry smashing an unbeaten 35 off 15 balls. These crucial partnerships ensured DC set a daunting target for RCB to chase in the final. Rodrigues's performance marked her fifth half-century in WPL finals, a feat achieved by only a select few players, solidifying her place among the top performers in high-stakes matches. Her 264 runs in the 2026 season further underscored her consistent form throughout the tournament.
RCB's Record Chase
In response, Royal Challengers Bengaluru achieved a historic chase, securing the WPL 2026 title with a six-wicket victory. The foundation for their triumph was laid by an exceptional 165-run partnership for the second wicket between Smriti Mandhana and Georgia Voll. This stand shattered the previous WPL record for the highest partnership for any wicket, demonstrating incredible resilience and skill under pressure. Mandhana led the charge with a magnificent 87 off 41 balls, a knock featuring 12 fours and three sixes, which also saw her surpass Harmanpreet Kaur as the leading run-scorer against Delhi Capitals in the WPL. Voll provided crucial support with a brilliant 79 off 54 balls, laced with 14 boundaries. Although Richa Ghosh departed without scoring, the strong foundation allowed RCB to complete the chase in the final over, marking their second WPL title and equaling Mumbai Indians' record.
Statistical Highlights
The WPL 2026 final was a showcase of individual brilliance and team achievements. Jemimah Rodrigues's 57 in the final placed her in elite company, joining Harmanpreet Kaur and Nat Sciver-Brunt as batters with 50+ scores in WPL finals. Her WPL career tally now stands at 771 runs. On the RCB side, Smriti Mandhana's 87 not only anchored the record chase but also propelled her past 1,000 WPL runs, making her the fifth player to achieve this milestone. Her total of 377 runs in the 2026 season is the second-highest tally in a single WPL edition. The record-breaking 165-run partnership between Mandhana and Voll was the defining moment, eclipsing the previous best. Additionally, Nandani Sharma of Delhi Capitals finished as joint-highest wicket-taker for the season with 17 wickets, alongside Sophie Devine, adding another layer of individual achievement to the tournament.
