RCB Clinches Second WPL Title with Stellar Performances from Mandhana and Voll

Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their second Women's Premier League title, led by captain Smriti Mandhana and standout performances from Lauren Bell and Georgia Voll. A record-breaking chase of 204 runs showcased the team's resilience and skill. Mandhana praised her teammates' efforts and the unwavering support from fans. The match featured thrilling moments, including a remarkable partnership that secured the victory. Read on to explore the highlights and key contributions that defined this championship win.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 6, 2026, 02:15 IST

RCB's Triumph in the Women's Premier League

Vadodara (Gujarat) - On February 6, following their remarkable victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana praised the outstanding performances of pacer Lauren Bell and batter Georgia Voll. Mandhana expressed her anticipation that Voll would deliver a crucial innings in the final match.

A phenomenal partnership of 165 runs between Mandhana and Voll propelled RCB to their second WPL title, successfully chasing down a challenging target of 204 runs despite facing some late-game challenges.

During the post-match presentation, Smriti commended Bell for her impressive economy rate of just over four runs in a high-scoring encounter, stating, "In the closing overs, we bowled exceptionally well. Credit goes to Bell – she bowled 400 deliveries and conceded only around 20 runs. That was a match-winning performance."

Bell made a significant impact in her WPL debut, finishing as RCB’s second-highest wicket-taker with 12 wickets at an impressive average of 16.58 and an economy rate of 5.52, effectively stifling opposing batters throughout the tournament.

Regarding Voll, who had struggled with only 37 runs in her previous four innings after a solid debut performance of 54*, Mandhana remarked, "Voll took charge early on, maintaining the strike during the powerplay with her intent. I had a strong feeling she would deliver a match-winning performance in the final. Her extra practice in recent days clearly paid off."

Having led RCB to their second WPL championship, Smriti referred to the team's fans as the "best in the world."

"No matter where we play, we receive unwavering support. Everything we do is for them. Achieving three titles (including IPL) in three years for the franchise is truly remarkable," she added.

Mandhana highlighted the favorable batting conditions of the pitch and acknowledged the support staff for providing clear roles to each player.

"The girls are putting in tremendous effort, which significantly boosts our confidence. When you believe you can chase down any score, it transforms your mindset," she noted, emphasizing the positive atmosphere within the team.

"I mentioned this in 2024, and I’ll say it again, ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ (This year the cup is ours)," she concluded.

In the match, RCB won the toss and chose to bowl first. Lizelle Lee (37 runs off 30 balls, including three fours and three sixes) and Shafali Verma (20 runs off 13 balls, with three fours) provided a strong start. A crucial 76-run partnership for the third wicket between Jemimah Rodrigues, who scored 57 runs off 37 balls with eight fours, and Laura Wolvaardt (44 runs off 35 balls, with three fours and two sixes) brought the team back into contention. Just when RCB seemed to regain control, Chinelle Henry (35* off 15 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) delivered a powerful cameo, leading DC to a total of 203/4 in 20 overs, the highest score in a WPL final.

In response, RCB lost Grace Harris (8) early on, but a remarkable 165-run partnership between Smriti (87 runs off 41 balls, with 12 fours and three sixes) and Georgia Voll (79 runs off 54 balls, with 14 fours) significantly hindered DC's chances. Although DC managed to take three quick wickets in the final overs, Radha Yadav (12*) and Nadine de Klerk (7*) successfully completed the chase with six wickets remaining and two balls to spare.

Mandhana was awarded the 'Player of the Match' title.