Royal Challengers Bengaluru spinner Shreyanka Patil has dedicated the team’s second Women’s Premier League title to captain Smriti Mandhana after their record chase against Delhi Capitals in the 2026 final in Vadodara on Thursday, February 5. Patil highlighted Mandhana’s recent personal struggles and called the triumph an emotional one for the dressing room.
Key highlights
-
Patil says the WPL 2026 title is “dedicated” to Mandhana, praising her leadership and resilience.
-
Mandhana smashed 87 off 41 balls in a 204-run chase as RCB clinched their second WPL crown by six wickets with two balls to spare.
-
Patil, who finished the season with 11 wickets, underlines the emotional lift for RCB after their captain’s difficult last few months.
-
Delhi Capitals suffer a fourth straight final defeat, while RCB cement their status as a dominant force in the WPL.
Why it matters
The dedication underscores how Mandhana’s form and off-field resilience continue to shape RCB’s WPL legacy and inspire younger Indian players. With back-to-back deep runs and two titles in three years, RCB’s success further boosts the profile of women’s T20 leagues and star-driven fandom in Indian cricket. Mandhana’s match-winning innings and Patil’s public tribute also strengthen her status as a central figure in women’s franchise cricket.
Fact box
-
Company: Royal Challengers Sports Pvt. Ltd.
-
Product / Platform: Women’s Premier League franchise – Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women.
-
Release date: WPL 2026 final played on February 5, 2026.
-
Availability: Tournament hosted across India, final at Vadodara.
-
Source: Times of India, Hindustan Times, Olympics.com, ESPNcricinfo.
