Sophie Devine and Nandani Sharma Shine at WPL 2026 Awards

The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 concluded with Sophie Devine winning the 'Most Valuable Player' award and Nandani Sharma being recognized as the 'Emerging Player of the Season.' RCB triumphed in the final with a record chase of 204 runs, led by Smriti Mandhana's impressive 87 runs. This article highlights the key performances and individual accolades from the tournament, showcasing the talents that shone throughout the season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 6, 2026, 02:16 IST

WPL 2026 Awards Highlight Top Performers

In Vadodara, Gujarat, on February 6, the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 concluded with notable accolades. Sophie Devine from Gujarat Giants (GG) was honored with the 'Most Valuable Player' award, while Nandani Sharma, a promising young pacer from Delhi Capitals (DC), received the title of 'Emerging Player of the Season.'

RCB clinched their second WPL title with a remarkable run chase of 204 runs, highlighted by a stellar partnership of 165 runs. Despite finishing third, GG and DC celebrated individual achievements after reaching the finals four times.

The 36-year-old New Zealand all-rounder, Sophie Devine, made significant contributions both with bat and ball, amassing 243 runs across nine matches at an average of 30.37 and a strike rate exceeding 148, including two half-centuries. She also earned the 'Purple Cap' for taking the most wickets in the season, totaling 17 at an average of 16.00, featuring a four-wicket haul.

Nandani Sharma, aged 24, matched Devine's wicket tally with 17 but had a slightly higher average of 18.58. Her standout performance included a five-wicket haul of 5/33 against GG, which also featured a hat-trick.

During the final match, RCB opted to bowl first after winning the toss. Lizelle Lee and Shafali Verma provided a strong start, scoring 37 and 20 runs, respectively. A crucial 76-run partnership between Jemimah Rodrigues, who scored 57 runs off 37 balls, and Laura Wolvaardt, who added 44 runs off 35 balls, helped DC reach a total of 203/4, the highest score in a WPL final.

In response, RCB faced an early setback with Grace Harris dismissed for 8 runs. However, a formidable 165-run partnership between Smriti Mandhana, who scored 87 runs off 41 balls, and Georgia Voll, who contributed 79 runs off 54 balls, significantly boosted RCB's chances. Despite losing three quick wickets towards the end, Radha Yadav and Nadine de Klerk successfully guided RCB to victory with six wickets remaining and two balls to spare.

Mandhana was named the 'Player of the Match' for her outstanding performance.