Delhi Capitals know this territory inside out. They know what it feels like to step onto the WPL final stage—and the pressure that comes with it. On Thursday, the Capitals will play their fourth consecutive final, facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara. Yet, DC’s record in finals reads like a nightmare—they have lost all three previous title clashes.
This season, however, has been different. Unlike 2023, 2024, and 2025, when DC dominated the league stage and qualified directly for the final, this year has been a roller-coaster. At one point, the Capitals were on the verge of elimination. They fought back, though, staging 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 final curse. After years of heartbreak at the last hurdle, this is their chance to finally finish on the right side of history and lift the coveted WPL trophy.
CAN CAPITALS TAKE 2024 REVENGE?
If you remember the 2024 final between RCB and DC, you know how heartbreak struck the Capitals. After opting to bat first, DC raced to 64 for one in 7.1 overs, powered by Shafali Verma and Meg Lanning’s ice-and-fire combination. But from there, RCB staged a remarkable comeback, bowling DC out for 113 and cruising to lift the trophy.
Two years later, the Capitals have a chance to settle the scores. After being hammered by Smritu Mandhana’s side in Navi Mumbai, DC struck back with a win in Vadodara.
Now, back at the same venue, the Capitals have an opportunity to rewrite history, avenge past heartbreak, and finally fulfill the dreams left unachieved in the era of Meg Lanning. This final isn’t just about a trophy—it’s about redemption, resilience, and finishing what was once left unfinished.
CAN RCB BREAK THE TABLE-TOPPERS CURSE?
The WPL final hasn’t been kind to teams finishing at the top of the table. Just ask the Capitals, who have fallen short every time they reached the final as table-toppers. This year, it’s RCB who claimed the top spot. After winning their first five games and securing a place in the top three, their eight-wicket win over UP Warriorz confirmed their position at the summit.
Smriti Mandhana’s side now enjoy a week-long break before the final. But breaks can be a double-edged sword—they can disrupt momentum. Meg Lanning herself has noted that rest periods don’t always help teams maintain rhythm.
Now, RCB have an opportunity to break the “table-topper curse” and prove they are more than capable of converting dominance into a title. With confidence high and a chance to rewrite WPL history, the final presents a golden moment for RCB to end the streak of top-of-the-table disappointments and lift the trophy.
THE FRIENDSHIP BATTLE
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 during personal turmoil.
On Thursday, however, there will be no friendship on the field, as both fight for the ultimate prize. Mandhana already has a WPL title to her name, while a win for Jemimah would not only crown her as a champion, but also signal a new leader emerging in India’s women’s cricket ecosystem.
RCB have enjoyed a relatively smooth run to the final, but the Capitals will be hungrier, determined to overturn a hat-trick of previous final defeats. One thing is certain: when these two sides step onto the field, there will be no shortage of drama, intensity, and high-quality cricket, 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 across the 10 matches played in the ongoing WPL edition. In a high-pressure clash, teams may prefer to bat first and then apply pressure on their opponents with disciplined bowling.
Weather-wise, 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 batters 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 the WPL 2026 final?
Star Sports Network has the broadcasting rights for the WPL 2026. Live Streaming of the RCB vs DC clash can be watched on the JioHotstar app.
When to watch RCB vs DC in the WPL 2026 final?
The RCB vs DC final in the WPL 2026 is scheduled to start at 7 PM IST.
WPL 2026 | WPL Points Table | WPL 2026 Schedule | Live Score
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