In a dominant display at Vadodara, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scripted history in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 by storming into the final with a record sixth league stage victory. On Thursday, RCB chased down UP Warriors’ total of 143 runs with 41 balls to spare, securing an eight-wicket triumph in the 18th match of the season.
This victory marks RCB’s third-largest win by balls remaining in WPL history. Earlier this season, they had chased 144 against the same opponents with 47 balls left, and in 2024, they overcame Gujarat Giants in Bengaluru with 45 balls in hand. With six wins from eight league games, RCB now holds the distinction of the most league stage victories in a single WPL edition, jointly topping the charts with Delhi Capitals (2023), Mumbai Indians (2023), and Delhi Capitals (2024).
Captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front, smashing an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls, adorned with eight fours and two sixes. This knock elevated her to second on RCB’s list of most half-centuries, behind Alyssa Healy’s eight and ahead of Richa Ghosh’s five.
UP Warriors, electing to bat first after winning the toss, struggled to 143 for eight. Deepti Sharma top-scored with 55, supported by skipper Meg Lanning’s 41. RCB’s Nadine de Klerk shone with the ball, claiming four wickets.
In reply, RCB raced to victory in just 13.1 overs. Grace Harris blazed 75, partnering Mandhana in a clinical chase. This sixth win seals RCB’s finals spot, with the title clash set for February 5 on the same ground. RCB’s campaign has been a testament to their depth and firepower, positioning them as favorites for the crown.