Vadodara | February 5, 2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
WPL 2026 Final:
The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown as Delhi Capitals (DC) take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the final of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the BCA Stadium (Kotambi) here on Thursday. With contrasting journeys to the summit clash, both teams arrive with clear goals — DC chasing their maiden WPL crown and RCB aiming to continue their dominant run.
The final also carries a unique India–South Africa flavour, with stars from both nations expected to light up the grand stage.
Table of Contents
Contrasting Roads to the Final
Delhi Capitals have endured a tense campaign, often scraping through must-win encounters to reach their fourth WPL final. Despite the pressure, DC have shown remarkable resilience, relying on a settled core that has seen them stick with the same 13 players throughout the season.
In contrast, Royal Challengers Bangalore enjoyed a far smoother journey. Finishing top of the group with six wins from eight matches, RCB stormed into the final brimming with confidence. The side has adapted well even in the absence of Ellyse Perry, with Grace Harris stepping up with impactful performances.
Star Power on Both Sides
The final promises a battle between some of the biggest names in women’s cricket. DC’s Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues will be key to their title hopes, while RCB captain Smriti Mandhana and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh headline a formidable batting lineup.
Adding international spice are South African stars Marizanne Kapp and Laura Wolvaardt, whose all-round abilities could prove decisive in a pressure-filled contest.
Key Battles to Watch
One of the most anticipated contests will be the opening duel between DC’s power-packed openers Shafali Verma and Lizelle Lee and RCB’s new-ball spearhead Lauren Bell. Bell has been outstanding with the new ball this season, and her ability to break DC’s opening stand early could set the tone.
Statistics underline the importance of this clash: DC are unbeaten in matches where Shafali and Lee have stitched together a 50-plus partnership.
For RCB, Grace Harris remains the player to watch. Her strike rate of 181, the highest among batters who have faced more than 50 balls this season, makes her a dangerous proposition at any stage of the innings.
Bowling and Tactical Nuances
RCB boast the best death bowling economy in WPL 2026 (8.27), narrowly edging DC, who are second-best at 8.37. DC’s Nandni Sharma, with 16 wickets, leads the Indian wicket-takers chart this season and will shoulder major responsibility in the final.
RCB may tweak their combination, with Pooja Vastrakar likely to play as a specialist batter and the return of Arundhati Reddy, along with a possible inclusion of leg-spinner Prema Rawat, adding tactical depth.
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Pitch and Conditions
The Vadodara pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest, with decent grass cover assisting bowlers early and spinners coming into play as the match progresses. While dew is unlikely to be a major factor, conditions could change quickly, making on-field decisions crucial.
Final Verdict
With everything on the line, the WPL 2026 final promises high drama and fireworks. Will RCB’s consistency carry them to another title, or will DC finally break through to lift their first WPL trophy? Fans can expect a nail-biter where every run, wicket, and decision counts.
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