Royal Challengers Bengaluru Triumph in Thrilling WPL 2026 Opener Against Mumbai Indians
Exciting Start to WPL 2026
The inaugural match of the Women’s Premier League 2026 was nothing short of exhilarating, as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) commenced their season with a dramatic three-wicket victory over the reigning champions, Mumbai Indians, at Kottambi Stadium in Vadodara on January 9.
Set with a target of 155 runs by the Mumbai Indians, RCB managed to chase it down on the last ball, thanks to Nadine de Klerk's outstanding performance, scoring 63 runs off 44 balls, which included seven fours and two sixes, achieving a strike rate of 143.18. This victory marked a strong start for the 2024 champions in their quest for a second title.
Nadine de Klerk's All-Round Performance
Earlier in the match, Nadine de Klerk spearheaded the RCB bowling attack, recording impressive figures of 4 wickets for 26 runs at an economy rate of 6.50 over four overs, limiting the Mumbai Indians to 154/6. This was despite a solid 82-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Sanjana Sajeevan (45) and Nicola Carey (40).
The Thrilling Chase
In pursuit of 155 runs, RCB faced a rocky start, losing key players including skipper Smriti Mandhana (18), Grace Harris (25), Dayalan Hemalatha (7), Richa Ghosh (6), and Radha Yadav (1), leaving them at a precarious 65/5 in just 7.4 overs.
However, a pivotal 52-run partnership between Arundhati Reddy (20) and Nadine de Klerk reignited RCB's hopes before de Klerk was dismissed at 117/6. Following her exit, Shreyanka Patil (1) quickly followed, leaving RCB needing 18 runs from the final over.
Clutch Finish by de Klerk
Under immense pressure, de Klerk took charge, facing two dot balls before hitting two fours and a six off Nat Sciver-Brunt, reducing the requirement to just two runs off the last ball. She sealed the victory with a boundary, igniting celebrations in the RCB camp as they marked a thrilling start to their WPL 2026 campaign.
Had Sciver-Brunt managed to defend the last ball, the match would have gone to a Super Over, but de Klerk's composure ensured a thrilling finish in regular play.
Praise for Nadine de Klerk
Nadine de Klerk's match-winning display drew admiration from fans and cricket enthusiasts alike, who were impressed by her poise under pressure. Many took to social media to commend her performance, drawing comparisons to former RCB star AB de Villiers, known for his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Fans expressed their excitement, with comments like, 'Nadine de Klerk is the best all-rounder in T20s!' and 'What a start to the WPL!' highlighting her significant impact in the match.
Upcoming Matches
Nadine de Klerk was acquired by RCB for 65 lakh during the WPL 2026 mega auction, following her impressive performance in the Women’s World Cup in India, where she scored 208 runs and took nine wickets.
RCB will next face the Gujarat Titans, while the Mumbai Indians will aim to bounce back against UP Warriorz on January 10.