On a night filled with fireworks, fierce hitting, and flawless fielding, the real story of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) WPL 2026 victory wasn’t just about runs or wickets—it was about heart. After securing their second Women’s Premier League title with a record-breaking chase against Delhi Capitals, 21-year-old spinner Shreyanka Patil stood before the cameras and delivered a line that resonated far beyond the boundary ropes: “She has gone through a lot.” That “she” was none other than RCB captain Smriti Mandhana—a leader whose journey to this triumphant moment has been anything but smooth [[1]].
Table of Contents
- The Emotional Dedication Behind the RCB WPL Triumph
- Mandhana’s Leadership Journey: From Criticism to Captain Cool
- How RCB Sealed Their Second WPL Title
- Team Culture and Unity: The Real Engine Behind RCB’s Success
- What This Win Means for Women’s Cricket in India
- Conclusion: A Victory Built on Resilience
- Sources
The Emotional Dedication Behind the RCB WPL Triumph
In the euphoria of victory, it’s easy to overlook the quiet moments that define a team’s spirit. But Shreyanka Patil’s post-match words cut through the noise. Her simple yet powerful statement—“She has gone through a lot”—was a window into the immense pressure, public scrutiny, and personal challenges Mandhana has shouldered as RCB’s captain since the league’s inception [[3]].
This RCB WPL triumph wasn’t just another trophy; it was vindication. For a player who faced criticism after RCB’s early exits in previous seasons, this win symbolized redemption—not just for her, but for every teammate who believed in her vision. Patil’s dedication highlighted a culture where individual struggles are shared, and collective success is celebrated as a family.
Mandhana’s Leadership Journey: From Criticism to Captain Cool
When Smriti Mandhana was named captain of RCB in the inaugural WPL season (2023), expectations were sky-high. Yet, despite her stellar international record, the team failed to lift the trophy in 2023, 2024, and even came close in 2025—only to fall short. Critics questioned her tactical acumen and ability to handle high-stakes games [[7]].
But true leaders don’t crumble under pressure—they evolve. Over three seasons, Mandhana transformed from a gifted batter into a strategic, empathetic captain. She empowered young players like Georgia Voll and Shreyanka Patil, fostered a fearless playing style, and led from the front with her bat—most notably in the 2026 final, where her blistering 87 off 41 balls set the tone for the historic chase [[5]]. This journey from doubt to dominance is what makes the RCB WPL triumph so deeply meaningful.
How RCB Sealed Their Second WPL Title
The 2026 WPL final was a masterclass in chasing under pressure. Chasing Delhi Capitals’ imposing 203/4—the highest total in a WPL final—RCB looked shaky at 1/1 in the first over. But then came the partnership that changed everything: Mandhana and Georgia Voll stitched together a 165-run stand for the second wicket, the highest in WPL final history [[9]].
Key highlights of the chase:
- Mandhana’s 87 (41 balls): 9 fours, 8 sixes, strike rate of 212.19.
- Voll’s composed 79 (54 balls): Anchored the innings while accelerating when needed.
- Record chase: 204/4 in 19.4 overs—the largest successful chase in WPL history.
- Bowling discipline: RCB’s bowlers restricted DC in the death overs, keeping the target within reach.
This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement of intent from a team that refused to be defined by past failures.
Team Culture and Unity: The Real Engine Behind RCB’s Success
What truly sets this RCB squad apart is its culture. Unlike franchises built solely on star power, RCB has cultivated an environment of trust, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Young talents like Patil aren’t just role players—they’re integral voices in the dressing room [[11]].
This unity was evident in how the team rallied around Mandhana during tough phases. When she struggled with form earlier in the tournament, teammates stepped up. And when it mattered most—in the final—they delivered for her. As Patil’s emotional tribute showed, this victory belonged to everyone, but especially to the captain who carried the weight of expectation with grace.
What This Win Means for Women’s Cricket in India
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s second title—tying them with Mumbai Indians as the most successful WPL franchise—does more than boost their legacy. It elevates the entire ecosystem of women’s cricket in India [[13]]. Mandhana’s leadership success provides a blueprint for future captains: that empathy, resilience, and belief in your team can overcome even the harshest criticism.
For aspiring girls watching across the country, seeing a leader like Mandhana—openly supported by her teammates after years of struggle—sends a powerful message: greatness isn’t just about stats; it’s about character. You can explore more inspiring stories in our [INTERNAL_LINK:women-cricket] section.
Conclusion: A Victory Built on Resilience
The RCB WPL triumph of 2026 will be remembered not just for the records broken or the runs scored, but for the human story at its core. Smriti Mandhana’s journey—from criticized captain to two-time champion—is a testament to perseverance. And Shreyanka Patil’s heartfelt words, “She has gone through a lot,” captured the soul of this victory better than any stat ever could. In the end, this wasn’t just RCB’s win—it was a win for every athlete who’s ever been told they’re not enough.