Vadodara, January 29 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana revealed the team’s unwavering focus heading into their crucial clash with UP Warriors. ‘We kept reminding the team that the final was just one win away,’ she said, echoing the consistent message that propelled them to victory.
RCB stormed into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 final with a commanding 8-wicket triumph over UP Warriors in the 18th match on Thursday. Bowling first, RCB restricted the opponents to 143/8 before chasing down the target in just 13.1 overs. The 2024 champions are now eyeing their second title in as many seasons.
Mandhana praised her bowlers for turning the game around after UP Warriors openers Meg Lanning and Deepti Sharma provided a solid start. ‘It was a fantastic match,’ she told broadcasters post-game. ‘UP Warriors got off to a great beginning, scoring nearly 60-70 runs without loss, but our bowlers staged a brilliant comeback. Grace took two key wickets, Nadine de Klerk was outstanding again, and honestly, everyone bowled superbly. When the team bowls like this, it’s a joy to watch.’
Reflecting on recent setbacks, Mandhana highlighted the squad’s calm and pragmatic approach following two losses. ‘In the last two games, we told ourselves not to get emotional or create unnecessary pressure. We’d played brilliantly in the first five matches. In tournaments like this, you sometimes have to credit the opposition, like Nat Sciver-Brunt in the previous game. We reviewed things practically, focused on what we could improve, and worked on it.’
The captain emphasized the support staff’s consistency. ‘Honestly, the message was the same as in recent matches. We kept saying we’re one win from the final, nothing changed. The support staff has been consistent with their messaging, win or lose, and that continuity helps us as players. For the last three games, it was always about being one win away, and I’m just thrilled we got that win today and qualified directly for the final.’
RCB’s dominant performance sets the stage for an exciting finale, with Mandhana’s leadership proving pivotal once again.