In what will be remembered as one of the greatest finals in Women's Premier League history, Royal Challengers Bengaluru captured their second WPL title with a stunning six-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals at BCA Stadium in Vadodara on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
The match witnessed cricket of the highest order, with RCB successfully chasing down 204 runs with two balls to spare, marking the first time any team has achieved such a monumental chase in a women's T20 final anywhere in the world. At the heart of this remarkable achievement was captain Smriti Mandhana, whose blistering 87 off just 41 deliveries earned her the Player of the Match award and cemented her status as one of the finest batters in women's cricket.
Delhi Capitals had set an imposing target after being put in to bat first. Jemimah Rodrigues anchored the innings with a composed half-century, scoring 57 runs to provide stability in the middle overs. She received excellent support from opener Laura Wolvaardt, who contributed 44, and Lizelle Lee, who added a quickfire 37. The late onslaught came from Chinelle Henry, whose unbeaten 35 off just 15 balls, featuring four boundaries and two towering sixes, propelled Delhi to a formidable 203 for 4.
Many believed the target was beyond reach, especially given the pressure of a championship final. However, Mandhana and Australian opener Georgia Voll had other ideas. The pair constructed a masterful 165-run partnership for the second wicket, a record for the WPL and one of the finest partnerships ever seen in women's T20 cricket under pressure.
Mandhana was in imperious form from the start, dispatching 12 fours and three sixes in an innings that showcased both elegance and brutal power. The Indian captain played shots all around the ground, never allowing the Delhi bowlers to settle into any rhythm. Her partner Voll was equally impressive, contributing 79 runs off 54 balls with 14 boundaries, providing the perfect complement to Mandhana's aggressive approach.
When both set batters finally departed, the equation had been reduced to a manageable task. Radha Yadav, with 12 runs, and Nadine de Klerk, with 7 not out, calmly guided RCB across the finish line, sparking wild celebrations among the Bengaluru faithful.
For RCB, this triumph represents a remarkable achievement in the young history of the WPL. Having won their first title previously, they have now established themselves as the most successful franchise in the competition. Mandhana's leadership throughout the tournament has been exemplary, and her performances in the knockout stages will be spoken about for years to come.
Delhi Capitals, despite the loss, can hold their heads high. Their total of 203 was a statement of intent, and their journey to the final showcased the depth and quality within their squad. The performances of Rodrigues and Henry throughout the tournament suggest they will remain serious contenders in seasons to come.
As the celebrations continued late into the Vadodara night, one thing was abundantly clear: women's cricket in India has never been stronger, and moments like this final are proof that the WPL has become one of the most exciting cricket leagues in the world.
Cricket
Mandhana Magic: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Clinch Second WPL Title with Record-Breaking Chase
📅 Published on February 6, 2026 at 8:00 AM