Royal Challengers Bengaluru capped off a memorable Women's Premier League 2026 campaign by clinching their second WPL title, sealing a composed six-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals in a final that swung on fine margins and calmer minds.
The chase defined the night. On a good batting wicket but one that demanded discipline, RCB's top order ensured the pressure never truly shifted. Georgia Voll and Smriti Mandhana absorbed the early nerves, paced the innings smartly, and set up a finish that played to the squad's depth. As Lauren Bell summed it up later, "We chased the target really well, and Georgia and Smriti were outstanding at the top. They set the chase up perfectly. "
Bell, who had a key role with the ball earlier, admitted the occasion
tested every nerve. "I've never been part of a game that close, and with the fans behind us after waiting so long for this Final, it made the moment incredibly special. I'm just glad we got over the line," she said, crediting the atmosphere for pushing the team through decisive moments. The England pacer was also quick to acknowledge the support throughout the season, adding, "The fans have backed us all the way and definitely played a big role in this win. "
For Voll, the final was about clarity more than flair. "The plan was to take the game as deep as possible. It was a very good batting wicket, so the focus was on playing straight and batting for time," she explained. With finishers waiting, RCB trusted the process. "To perform like that in the Final was really special. to deliver when it mattered most meant a lot. "
Behind the scenes, preparation proved crucial. Radha Yadav revealed how the management drilled the side for moments like this. "We worked a lot on situational practice, chasing specific targets in specific scenarios," she said, also highlighting the value of a short mid-tournament reset that allowed the group to return refreshed.
For Shreyanka Patil, the title carried personal weight. "This season has been very special for me, especially as a comeback year," she said, praising the belief inside the dugout. "Every player in this team felt like a leader. that shows how strong the team effort has been. " She also dedicated the win, noting, "Smriti deserves it and this win is for her. "
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, this was a title shaped by trust, preparation, and shared responsibility. For Delhi Capitals, another final ended in disappointment - but not without reaffirming their stature. On this night, though, RCB held their nerve when it mattered most, and that made all the difference.
