Capital cities of Delhi know this territory inside out. They know what it’s like to enter the final stages of the WPL – and the pressure that comes with it. On Thursday, the Capitals will play their fourth final in a row against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. Still, DC’s record in the finals reads like a nightmare – they’ve lost all three of their previous title fights.
However, this season was different. Unlike 2023, 2024 and 2025, when DC dominated the league stage and qualified directly for the finals, this year was like a roller coaster. At one point, the Capitals were on the brink of elimination. However, they resisted a seven wicket win over Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator, powered by a brilliant bowling performance.
Now all eyes are on the Capitals to break their latest curse. After years of heartbreak at the final hurdle, this is their chance to finally end up on the right side of history and lift the coveted WPL trophy.
CAN THE CAPITALS GET REVENGE IN 2024?
Jemimah Rodrigues is looking for her first WPL title as captain. Courtesy: PTI
If you remember the 2024 final between RCB and DC, you know how big a heart the Capitals hit. After electing to bat first, DC raced to 64 for one in 7.1 overs, powered by an ice-fire combination from Shafali Verma and Meg Lanning. But from there, RCB staged a remarkable comeback, bowling DC for 113 and cruising to lift the trophy.
Two years later, the Capitals have a chance to even the score. After being hammered by Smrita Mandhan’s side in Navi Mumbai, DC hit back with a win in Vadodara.
Now, back in the same spot, the Capitals have an opportunity to rewrite history, avenge past heartaches, and finally fulfill unfulfilled dreams in the time of Meg Lanning. This final is not just about the trophy – it is about redemption, resilience and finishing what was once left unfinished.
CAN RCB BREAK THE CURSE OF TABLE-TOPPERS?
RCB finished top of the table in WPL 2026. Courtesy: PTI
The WPL finals were not kind to the teams that finished at the top of the table. Just ask the Capitals, who have flopped every time they’ve reached the Finals as a seed. This year, it is RCB who got the top spot. After winning their first five matches to secure a place in the top three, their eight-wicket win over UP Warriorz confirmed their position at the top.
Smriti Mandhana’s team is now enjoying a week’s break before the finals. But breaks can be a double-edged sword—they can break momentum. Meg Lanning herself noted that rest periods don’t always help teams maintain rhythm.
Now, RCB have an opportunity to break the ‘curse of tabletop players’ and prove that they are more than capable of turning dominance into a title. With confidence high and a chance to rewrite WPL history, the final represents a golden moment for RCB to end their disappointing run at the top of the table and lift the trophy.
THE BATTLE OF FRIENDSHIP
Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues were close friends. Courtesy: WPL
More than just RCB versus DC, the WPL final is shaping up to be a battle between two best friends. Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues have supported each other through tough times – Jemimah even sacrificed her stint with Brisbane Heat in the WBBL to stand by Mandhana’s side during personal turmoil.
However, there will be no friendship on the field on Thursday, as both are fighting for the top prize. Mandhana already has a WPL title under her belt, while a win for Jemimah would not only crown her as the champion but also signal a new leader emerging in the Indian women’s cricket ecosystem.
RCB have enjoyed a relatively smooth run to the final, but the Capitals will be hungrier, determined to reverse a hat-trick of previous final defeats. One thing is for sure, there will be no shortage of drama, intensity and high-quality cricket when these two sides take to the field, making for a final that promises to be as entertaining as it is fiercely competitive.
Vadodara pitch report and playing conditions
The Vadodara pitch has been good for batting, with an average score of 159 in the 10 matches played in the ongoing edition of the WPL. In a high-pressure clash, teams may prefer to bat first and then put pressure on their opponents with disciplined bowling.
As for the weather, Thursday promises clear skies with no chance of rain, ensuring a full game. Playing conditions will be pleasant, with temperatures around 29°C, making it ideal for both batsmen and bowlers.
RCB vs DC Head-to-Head
Overall
Matches – 9, Delhi Capitals – 6, Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 3
In Vadodara
Matches – 2, Delhi Capitals – 1, Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 1
Where to watch RCB vs DC in WPL 2026 final?
Star Sports Network has the broadcast rights for WPL 2026. Live streaming of RCB vs DC match can be watched on JioHotstar app.
When to watch RCB vs DC in WPL 2026 final?
The final of RCB vs DC in WPL 2026 is scheduled to start at 19:00 IST.
WPL 2026 | WPL Points Table | WPL 2026 Schedule | Live Score
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
February 5, 2026
