WPL Final: DC look to end final jinx as RCB eye another title

They have been here before, thrice in the previous three editions, and under their new captain Jemimah Rodrigues, Delhi Capitals will hope to end their final jinx.

Jemimah Rodrigues leads her side into a fourth straight WPL final appearance, with the team still searching for its first title after three runner-up finishes.

Delhi Capitals step into the final with a familiar objective: breaking their title jinx. Despite finishing runners-up in all three previous editions, the franchise has once again assembled a squad capable of going the distance. Under Jemimah Rodrigues’ leadership, the Capitals have relied on a strong bowling foundation, particularly with the new ball. Chinelle Henry and Nandani Sharma have consistently provided early breakthroughs, setting up matches from the outset.

With the bat, signs of cohesion have emerged at the right time. Lizelle Lee played a key role in the Eliminator, while Shafali Verma rediscovered rhythm in a half-century stand alongside the South African. Laura Wolvaardt has been the stabilising presence at the top order throughout the season.

The Capitals’ South African core, including Wolvaardt and Kapp, has brought continuity and composure, forged through years of playing together. That understanding could prove decisive as Delhi attempt to convert another final appearance into their first WPL title when the match begins at 7:30 pm.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s campaign has been defined by adaptability and collective contribution. While batters such as Mandhana, Harris, Georgia Voll and Richa Ghosh have not always produced in unison, isolated innings at key moments have kept the side on course.

Grace Harris’ 75 against UP Warriorz in the previous match stood out, especially after an uneven season, while Gautami Naik’s 73 against Gujarat Giants proved pivotal in a 61-run win earlier in the tournament.

The bowling unit has provided balance. Nadine de Klerk enters the final as the third-highest wicket-taker of the season with 15 wickets from eight matches, including a best of 4 for 22. Shreyanka Patil adds control and penetration through spin, highlighted by her five-wicket haul against Gujarat Giants. Pace bowlers Sayali Satghare and Lauren Bell have also delivered during pressure situations.

Skipper Smriti Mandhana will be aiming to guide RCB to a second WPL title, which would draw the franchise level with Mumbai Indians in overall success.

The WPL 2026 final brings together a lineup of players who have shaped the season in different ways.

On the Indian front, the contest features Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues for Delhi Capitals, matched against Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The South African influence is equally prominent, with Marizanne Kapp and Laura Wolvaardt anchoring the Capitals, while Nadine de Klerk shoulders major responsibility for Mandhana's RCB.

Among the quieter contributors, Chinelle Henry has emerged as a key figure for Delhi Capitals. Her three-wicket spell in the Eliminator played a decisive role in setting up the final berth, even if it drew less attention than the top-order runs. For RCB, Grace Harris has taken on an expanded role in the absence of Ellyse Perry, becoming the side’s primary powerplay aggressor and providing momentum at crucial stages.

Threaded between the established names are players who have stepped up when required, shaping a final that reflects both reputation and opportunity.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals arrive at the WPL final following contrasting but equally compelling journeys.

RCB have enjoyed a strong season marked by resilience and recovery, becoming the first team in league history to open a campaign with five consecutive wins. Even when consistency with the bat has been elusive, timely contributions have ensured they stayed ahead of opponents.

Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, have once again found their way into the final through a combination of bowling discipline and improving batting cohesion. Under new skipper Jemimah Rodrigues, the Capitals have leaned heavily on their pace attack, with Chinelle Henry and Nandani Sharma setting the tone early in innings. Nandani’s 16 wickets have made her the second-highest wicket-taker of the season, strengthening her case for higher honours.

The Women’s Premier League 2026 reaches its final chapter on Thursday as Delhi Capitals (DC) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the summit clash at Vadodara.

Delhi Capitals enter their fourth straight WPL final still searching for a maiden title, having finished runners-up in each of the previous three editions. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, meanwhile, are chasing history of a different kind, aiming to clinch their second WPL title.

The final brings together two sides that have been among the most watchable teams of the season, blending star power with depth. With marquee Indian batters, high-impact overseas allrounders, and bowling attacks that have delivered at key moments, the stage is set for a closely contested finale. The match begins at 7:30 pm, with both teams aware of the weight of history attached to the outcome.