Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Feb 6: Royal Challengers Bengaluru produced a sensational batting display to pull off the highest successful run-chase in Women’s Premier League history, defeating Delhi Capitals by six wickets in a thrilling final to clinch their second WPL title.
Chasing a daunting 204, RCB rode on a breathtaking 165-run partnership between skipper Smriti Mandhana and Georgia Voll after an early setback. The duo took complete control of the chase, matching Delhi Capitals shot for shot and keeping the asking rate firmly in check.
Mandhana, in imperious touch, smashed 87, while Voll played the perfect foil with a fluent 79. Their stand, the highest for any wicket in WPL history, laid the foundation for what looked like a comfortable chase before late twists added drama to the contest.
Earlier, Delhi Capitals posted a formidable 203 for 4 after being put in to bat. Lizelle Lee set the tone with an aggressive start, while Jemimah Rodrigues anchored the middle overs with a classy 57. Laura Wolvaardt added stability with 44, and Chinelle Henry provided the late flourish, blasting 35* to push DC past the 200-mark — the second-highest first-innings total in a Women’s T20 final.
RCB began their chase confidently, despite losing Grace Harris early. Mandhana and Voll then took charge, dismantling the DC bowling with clean strokeplay and smart placement. Mandhana brought up her fastest WPL half-century off just 23 balls, while Voll reached her fifty off 36 deliveries, keeping RCB well ahead of the required rate.
Just when the match seemed done, DC struck back with quick wickets, including those of Voll, Richa Ghosh and Mandhana in rapid succession, sparking hopes of an unlikely comeback. With the pressure mounting and runs still needed, Radha Yadav held her nerve in the final over, smashing two consecutive boundaries to seal a memorable victory.
The win marked RCB’s second triumph over DC in a WPL final — the first coming in 2024 — and extended Delhi’s heartbreak, as they finished runners-up for the fourth time. For RCB, it was a night of records, resilience and redemption, capped by a chase that will be remembered as one of the finest in WPL history.