RCB Triumphs Over Delhi Capitals in WPL 2026: Mandhana and Bowling Unit Shine

In an exciting match of the Women's Premier League 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru triumphed over Delhi Capitals, with Smriti Mandhana leading the charge with a stellar 96 runs. The bowling unit's exceptional performance played a crucial role in the victory, while Jemimah Rodrigues acknowledged the need for improvement in her team's bowling. Shafali Verma's impressive innings provided a glimmer of hope for Delhi, but ultimately, RCB's strong batting and strategic play secured their unbeaten status in the tournament. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match highlights and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 18, 2026, 02:18 IST

RCB's Dominant Performance Against Delhi Capitals

In a commanding display, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana commended her team's bowling after a decisive victory over Delhi Capitals in the 11th match of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 season on Saturday. Meanwhile, DC captain Jemimah Rodrigues acknowledged Shafali Verma's impressive batting but recognized the need for improvement in their bowling department.

Key Performers in the Match

Chasing a target of 167 runs, Smriti Mandhana was exceptional, scoring 96 runs off 61 balls, featuring 13 fours and three sixes. Georgia Voll also contributed significantly with an unbeaten 54 runs off 42 balls, including five fours and two sixes. On the bowling side, Lauren Bell (3 wickets for 26 runs in four overs) and Sayali Satghare (3 wickets for 27 runs in three overs) were standout performers, alongside Prema Rawat, who took 2 wickets for just 16 runs in three overs.

Mandhana Praises Bowling Strategy

After being awarded Player of the Match for her stellar innings, Mandhana expressed her appreciation for the bowling unit's execution of their strategy, particularly in the initial overs. "It was fantastic to see everyone performing well, especially in the first three overs. Sayali and Bell were exceptional. Everyone followed the plans effectively. Anya's experience was invaluable, and we aimed to keep Shafali off the strike," Mandhana stated during the post-match presentation.

Chasing Strategy and Team Balance

Mandhana noted that chasing made batting more straightforward, allowing her to identify which bowlers to target. She highlighted the positive impact of bringing Georgia Voll in at No. 3, which enhanced the team's batting balance. "Chasing is easier than setting a target since you can gauge what a good total is. After losing Grace, I knew which bowlers to attack and which to defend against. Voll's inclusion at No. 3 has been beneficial," she added.

Jemimah Rodrigues Reflects on DC's Performance

Jemimah Rodrigues, captain of Delhi Capitals, praised Shafali's aggressive batting that helped the team recover from a precarious 10/4 to finish at 166/10. However, she acknowledged the need for improvement in their bowling and expressed a commitment to return with a fearless approach. "Shafali's innings was remarkable, and Lucy's debut performance was impressive. We need to enhance our bowling and come back stronger," Rodrigues remarked.

RCB Maintains Unbeaten Streak

Despite an early setback with the loss of opener Grace Harris (1), RCB's 142-run partnership off 91 balls revitalized their innings, ensuring they remained unbeaten in WPL 2026. Although Mandhana was dismissed in the closing stages, Voll's unbeaten performance guided RCB to victory with 10 balls to spare.

DC's Struggles with Batting

Earlier, Delhi Capitals were bowled out for 166 runs in 20 overs. After a dismal start at 10/4, they struggled at 74/6, losing key players including wicketkeeper-batter Lizelle Lee (4) and captain Jemimah Rodrigues (4). Shafali Verma's remarkable innings of 62 runs off 41 balls, supported by Sneh Rana (22) and Lucy Hamilton (36), helped Delhi reach a fighting total.