Smriti Mandhana’s Heroics Under Duress Propel RCB to Record-Setting WPL Title Win
In a stunning display of skill and resilience, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title on Thursday night, overcoming a formidable target and inspired by a breathtaking innings from their captain, Smriti Mandhana. In a high-octane final at Vadodara, Mandhana led her team to a record chase of 204 runs against the Delhi Capitals, all while battling a severe bout of flu and high fever.
The Record-Breaking Chase
Facing a daunting 203/4 posted by Delhi Capitals—the highest total in a WPL final—RCB needed a historic effort. Captain Smriti Mandhana provided exactly that. She blazed her way to a magnificent 87 runs off just 41 balls, an innings filled with powerful, elegant strokeplay that systematically dismantled the DC bowling attack.
Mandhana forged a match-winning 165-run partnership with Australian opener Georgia Voll (79), which became the cornerstone of the chase. Their collaboration steered RCB to a dramatic six-wicket victory with just two balls to spare, sealing the highest successful run chase in WPL history.
Leading from the Front While Fighting Illness
The victory was made even more extraordinary by the revelation that Mandhana was seriously ill on match day. RCB head coach Malolan Rangarajan disclosed after the match that the skipper was battling “massive flu” and a high fever but chose to play, hiding her condition from her teammates.
“She was seriously unwell with a high fever… but to turn up and not even show it — nobody in the team knew for one second,” Rangarajan said, highlighting her immense mental fortitude and dedication. Her performance under physical duress exemplified true leadership and competitive spirit.
A Complete Team Triumph
While Mandhana’s heroics dominated the headlines, the title was a result of a collective team effort. The bowlers set the stage by restricting a powerful DC lineup, and vital contributions throughout the order ensured the chase stayed on course. The emotional significance of the win was underscored when teammate Shreyanka Patil dedicated the trophy to Mandhana, acknowledging her captain’s personal and professional journey.
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A Milestone for RCB and Women’s Cricket
This victory is a landmark achievement for the RCB franchise and a significant moment for women’s cricket in India. It underscores the rising competitive standards of the WPL, where a 200+ chase in a final is now a reality.
Smriti Mandhana’s courageous innings—a blend of sublime skill and sheer willpower—will be remembered as one of the great captain’s knocks in T20 cricket. It not only secured the WPL 2026 trophy but also cemented her legacy as a leader who delivers when her team needs her the most.
