Smriti Mandhana Highlights Rising Stars Ahead of WPL 2026 Final
Mandhana Commends Young Talent
Smriti Mandhana, the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has expressed her admiration for the emergence of uncapped players in the team this season. She attributes the squad's depth and balance to these young talents as they prepare for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 final against Delhi Capitals (DC) on February 5.
Impact of Uncapped Players
Reflecting on the contributions of uncapped players, Mandhana shared some standout moments. "It was wonderful to see Gautami become the first uncapped player to score a fifty. Prema has also made a significant impression on me. Although she hasn't had many chances due to team dynamics, she is an exceptional fielder, a talented leg-spinner, and a valuable batter. Her performance in the nets has consistently impressed me," Mandhana remarked.
Nandini Sharma's Journey
Mandhana also spoke about Nandini Sharma, the leading wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals, recalling her time as a net bowler with RCB. "Nandini has been a net bowler for us for the past two years, and I have witnessed her dedication. Seeing her achieve her first five-wicket haul genuinely made me happy. She has always given her best in the nets, and I felt she deserved this success due to her hard work. I'm thrilled for her," she added.
Relationship with Head Coach Malolan Rangarajan
Discussing her rapport with RCB's Head Coach Malolan Rangarajan, Mandhana highlighted his calming presence within the team. "I've known Malo for three years, starting from the first season. Since the second season, especially during auction planning, he has been very engaged. His calm demeanor, whether we were struggling at 44 for 4 or in a strong position, has been a stabilizing force. Many players have appreciated working with him, and his calmness has been particularly beneficial for the Indian players. Our bond has grown to the point where we can communicate without words; we just understand each other," she explained.
WPL 2026 Final: Team Lineups
As the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Delhi Capitals, who are making their fourth consecutive final appearance.
Squads:
Delhi Capitals Women Squad: Lizelle Lee (wicketkeeper), Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues (captain), Marizanne Kapp, Chinelle Henry, Niki Prasad, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Alana King, Taniya Bhatia, Lucy Hamilton, Pragati Singh, Eddla Srujana.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women Squad: Grace Harris, Smriti Mandhana (captain), Georgia Voll, Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Pooja Vastrakar, Arundhati Reddy, Sayali Satghare, Shreyanka Patil, Lauren Bell, Linsey Smith, Dayalan Hemalatha, Prathyoosha Kumar, Gautami Naik, Prema Rawat.