Vadodara: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scripted history by winning the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 title with a thrilling final victory over Delhi Capitals, becoming the first franchise to simultaneously hold both the IPL and WPL trophies. The landmark win marks a defining chapter for the Bengaluru-based franchise and transforms the once-hopeful slogan “Ee Sala Cup Namdu” into a statement of achievement.
The high-scoring final at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara witnessed a record chase led by captain Smriti Mandhana, whose explosive knock powered RCB to the highest successful run chase in WPL final history. The victory adds to RCB Women’s earlier title win in 2024 and comes a year after the men’s team lifted the IPL 2025 trophy under Rajat Patidar.
Delhi post record WPL final total
Delhi Capitals, appearing in their fourth consecutive WPL final, set a daunting target after scoring 203 for 4, the highest total ever recorded in a WPL final. Jemimah Rodrigues top-scored with a fluent 57, anchoring the innings and helping Delhi build a formidable platform.
With contributions through the middle order and strong finishing acceleration, Delhi put RCB under immediate scoreboard pressure. A target above 200 in a final was widely viewed as match-defining, especially given the occasion and quality of bowling attacks on both sides.
Mandhana, Voll power record-breaking chase
RCB’s response was aggressive and composed, driven by a captain’s innings from Smriti Mandhana, who smashed 87 off 41 balls. Blending elegant strokeplay with fearless hitting, she took control of the chase early and kept the required run rate within reach.
Mandhana was strongly supported by Georgia Voll, who scored 79, as the pair stitched together a decisive 165-run partnership that dismantled Delhi’s bowling plans. Their stand turned the match on its head and shifted pressure firmly onto the fielding side.
Despite a few late wickets that briefly raised hopes for Delhi, RCB held their nerve and crossed the target with two balls to spare, sealing a famous win and a tournament record chase.
Kohli hails team after title win
The historic triumph drew an immediate and emotional reaction from former RCB men’s captain Virat Kohli, often regarded as the franchise’s spiritual figurehead. He congratulated the women’s team and support staff in a social media message soon after the winning runs were scored.
“Champions again. Keeping the RCB flag flying high and something that each one of you can be proud of,” Kohli wrote. “To Smriti and the whole squad and the management team, a big congratulations for this tremendous victory. You guys deserve this undoubtedly. Enjoy the moment and embrace the love of our amazing fans.”
First franchise to hold both major T20 titles
With this win, RCB now hold both the IPL and WPL titles at the same time, a first in Indian franchise cricket. The men’s team ended an 18-year wait by winning the IPL in 2025, and the women’s team have now added a second WPL crown to their cabinet after their breakthrough title in 2024.
This dual success marks a dramatic turnaround for a franchise long criticised for underachievement despite star-studded line-ups over the years. Back-to-back seasons of silverware across both leagues have redefined RCB’s competitive legacy.
Dominant campaign through the season
RCB’s WPL 2026 title run was built on consistency in the league stage. The team won six of their eight matches, finishing among the top sides and earning a direct entry into the final.
Mandhana led from the front throughout the season and finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer, securing the Orange Cap. Her batting form and tactical leadership were widely credited as central factors behind RCB’s dominant campaign.
The bowling and support units also delivered at key moments across the season, giving the team balance and flexibility in different match situations.
Conclusion
RCB’s WPL 2026 triumph not only delivered another trophy but also completed a rare franchise double across India’s two biggest T20 leagues. With a record chase in the final and sustained excellence through the season, the Bengaluru side have firmly established themselves as a powerhouse in both men’s and women’s franchise cricket.