Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) registered a sensational nine-wicket victory over UP Warriors in the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL), thanks to an explosive display from Grace Harris and a composed captain’s innings from Smriti Mandhana. Harris’ record-equalling 32-run over and RCB’s clinical batting ensured the target of 144 was chased with ease.
UP Warriors Struggle Early, Dottin-Sharma Partnership Rescues Total
Batting first after losing the toss, UP Warriors endured a disastrous start, losing five key wickets for just 50 runs. Captain Meg Lanning (14), Harleen Deol (11), and Kiran Navgire (5) were dismissed cheaply, putting the team under immense pressure.
In a bid to stabilize the innings, Deepti Sharma and Deandra Dottin stitched together an unbeaten 93-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Sharma scored 45* off 35 balls, while Dottin contributed 40* off 37 balls, helping UP Warriors reach a respectable 143/5 in their 20 overs.
RCB’s Disciplined Bowling Sets the Tone
RCB’s bowlers kept the opposition on a tight leash from the start. Shreyanka Patil and Nadine de Klerk were the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets each, while Lauren Bell bowled economically, taking one wicket for just 16 runs in four overs.
Grace Harris’ Record-Equalling Over Steals the Show
Chasing 144, RCB openers Mandhana and Harris adopted an aggressive approach from the outset. The highlight came in the sixth over when Grace Harris smashed 32 runs off a single over bowled by Deandra Dottin, equalling the record for the most expensive over in WPL history. Harris reached her fifty in just 22 balls and finished unbeaten on 85 off 40 balls, while Mandhana provided perfect support with a composed innings.
RCB comfortably achieved the target with nine wickets in hand, strengthening their position at the top of the points table and sending a strong message to the rest of the tournament.
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