WPL 2026: DC snap RCB's winning streak with seven-wicket triumph, surge to 2nd in points table

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) unbeaten streak in Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 came to an end on January 24 as Delhi Capitals (DC) delivered a dominant all-round performance in Vadodara. Despite entering the match at the bottom of the table, Delhi completely reversed the expected narrative, handing the league leaders a crushing seven-wicket defeat and snapping their five-match winning run in emphatic fashion.

DC bulldoze table-toppers RCB

The evening proved to be a nightmare for RCB, as several of their key strengths faltered at once. The trouble began early when their usually reliable opening pair failed to find their rhythm. Grace Harris, appearing uncharacteristically restless, fell while attempting to accelerate during a quiet period of the innings, edging a delivery from Marizanne Kapp to the wicketkeeper.

Captain Smriti Mandhana’s struggles against spin continued shortly after. Minnu Mani, who was brought into the side for Deeya Yadav, made an immediate impact by dismissing Mandhana with just her second ball after the batter misjudged the length. This breakthrough triggered a rapid collapse, with the middle and lower order offering little resistance as wickets fell in quick succession.

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Delhi’s spin department masterfully controlled the middle overs, with Mani and Shree Charani applying relentless pressure to stifle the scoring. Mani was particularly effective, removing both Mandhana and Richa Ghosh, while Charani’s disciplined lines dried up the boundaries. Although Charani finished with a single wicket, her economical spell was crucial in forcing the errors that led to RCB being bundled out for just 109—their lowest total in the tournament's history.

Nandani Sharma landed the final punch, who devastated the tail by claiming three wickets in the death overs. Her clinical finishing ensured RCB was dismissed for their lowest total in WPL history—a sobering result that illustrated how even the most dominant teams can crumble under relentless pressure.

Laura Woolvardt stands tall in easy chase

In pursuit of the modest target, Delhi Capitals remained composed and were never in serious jeopardy. While Shafali Verma provided an early spark with her trademark aggressive stroke play, her quick departure and Lizelle Lee's unusually quiet innings gave RCB a brief opening. Sayali Satghare managed to remove both openers, but the breakthrough failed to trigger a broader collapse.

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Laura Wolvaardt then took command, guiding the chase with her signature poise. The South African star anchored the innings with an unbeaten 42, receiving steady support from Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp. Together, they navigated the remaining runs with ease, securing a seven-wicket victory with 26 balls to spare.

This emphatic win was a massive boost for Delhi, propelling them to second place on the table thanks to a significantly improved net run rate. For RCB, the loss served as a timely reality check after their perfect start to the season. Meanwhile, for the Capitals, the victory reignited their playoff ambitions and served as a reminder of the competitive and unpredictable nature of the WPL.