3 major reasons why RCB are favourites to win WPL 2026 title

RCB and DC will lock horns in the WPL 2026 final on February 5.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have not just participated in the Women’s Premier League (WPL 2026) this year, but they have also dominated the season so far. From the very start of the season, RCB have played with a clear dominance over their opponents.   

Their back-to-back victories, including the five-match winning streak, have showcased the progress this team has made this season. Whether it’s batting first, chasing a target, or finishing the game quickly, the Royal Challengers have shown tremendous capability in their approach, execution, and mindset.   

This is not just a coincidence; it is a result of progress, clarity, and conviction. On that note, here are three major reasons why RCB are the favourites to win the WPL 2026 trophy.  

3. Strong Core of Match-Winners  

At the heart of RCB‘s dominance lies a reliable and experienced core. Players like Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, and Grace Harris bring not only skill but also confidence to the team. Even when things don’t go according to their plans, they keep the team stable.

What set Royal Challengers apart this season is their consistency and teamwork. So far, all the batsmen and bowlers have contributed to their campaign.

There has always been someone who has risen to the occasion – an opener who has set the tone, a middle-order batsman who has taken the pressure, or a bowler who has bowled well in the most difficult overs.   

In a tournament where the momentum changes quickly, RCB’s strength of having multiple match-winners helped them stay in control throughout the season.   

2. Smriti Mandhana’s Leadership   

Smriti Mandhana’s captaincy has quietly transformed RCB. The most noticeable change is how calm the team looks, even in difficult situations. Early wickets, tight chases, or opposition partnerships no longer trigger panic.   

Smriti starts with a clear vision. She is proactive in her decision-making and communicates effectively with her players on the field. As an opener, she dictates the terms of batting – whether to go for the attack or to hold the fort, and this is reflected in the team’s strategy.   

Every player has played with freedom under her leadership. This has been important in close matches, especially during their five-match winning streak, where they consistently outplayed their opponents in crunch situations.  

1. Strong Winning Mindset  

The most noticeable change in this RCB team compared to the previous seasons is the way they finish matches. Previously, it was often the case that teams that got off to a good start at the beginning of the game rarely performed well in the final few overs.

However, in WPL 2026, RCB have shown maturity in dealing with every aspect of a match. Their batters know how to pace an innings, their bowlers stay committed to their plans, and their fielding displays a sense of urgency.   

The powerplay is effectively used, the middle overs are managed well, and the death overs are bowled with discipline. But even more importantly, RCB are now playing like a team that believes they can win. There is confidence, clarity, and calmness.   

RCB’s dominance in WPL 2026 has been built on consistency, calm leadership, and smarter cricket. With a strong core, Smriti Mandhana’s steady captaincy, and improved game management, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru look like a complete team that can win the title.

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