VADODARA — In a display of pure cricketing brilliance and personal fortitude, Smriti Mandhana led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Just weeks after navigating a deeply difficult period in her personal life, Mandhana silenced all speculation with a match-winning performance that cemented her legacy as one of India’s greatest sporting icons.
1. The Final: A Captain’s Knock for the Ages
Chasing a formidable target of 204 set by the Delhi Capitals at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Mandhana took charge of the chase from the first over.
- The Performance: She smashed 87 runs off just 43 balls, a strike rate of over 202, effectively dismantling the Capitals’ bowling attack.
- The Result: RCB chased down the total with six wickets and two balls to spare, sparking wild celebrations in Vadodara and Bengaluru.
- The Orange Cap: With this innings, Mandhana finished as the leading run-getter of WPL 2026, officially claiming the Orange Cap.
2. Rising from Personal Adversity
The victory is particularly poignant given the “roller coaster” Mandhana has endured over the last four months.
- World Cup Glory: In November 2025, she was instrumental in India winning its first-ever 50-over World Cup.
- Wedding Setback: Mandhana was set to marry musician Palash Muchhal in early 2026. However, the festivities were halted due to her father’s sudden illness.
- Public Statement: Following intense social media speculation, Mandhana took to Instagram to confirm that the wedding had been called off, requesting privacy as she focused on her family and her game.
“Smriti has gone through a lot in the last couple of months. I would love to dedicate this win to her.” — Shreyanka Patil, RCB Spinner
3. “Ee Sala Cup Namdu 2!”
During the trophy presentation, a beaming Mandhana paid tribute to the “12th Man Army” (RCB fans).
- The Message: Revisiting her famous 2024 quote, she declared, “Ee sala cup namdu 2!” (This year the cup is ours again).
- The Gesture: Before lifting the trophy, she flashed the number ‘2’ symbol with her hand, a nod to the franchise’s second title in three years.
- Team Effort: Mandhana also credited head coach Malo and the support staff for keeping the team’s morale high throughout the league stage.
4. WPL 2026: Tournament Snapshot
| Category | Winner / Statistic |
| Champions | Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) |
| Runners-up | Delhi Capitals (DC) |
| Orange Cap | Smriti Mandhana (RCB) |
| Venue of Final | BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara |
| Winning Margin | 6 Wickets |