
Fri Jan 09 13:40:00 UTC 2026: # Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore Clash in WPL 2026 Opener
The Story
The highly anticipated opening match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 saw the Mumbai Indians (MI) face off against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the DY Patil Sports Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The Mumbai Indians set a target of 155 runs for RCB. As of the report, RCB is struggling at 82 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 12 overs. Harmanpreet Kaur is captaining the Mumbai Indians, while Smriti Mandhana leads RCB. The Mumbai Indians are the defending champions, aiming to defend their title, while RCB seeks to add another WPL trophy to their cabinet.
Key Points
- Match: Mumbai Indians vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore, WPL 2026 Opening Match
- Venue: DY Patil Sports Stadium, Navi Mumbai
- Target: Mumbai Indians set a target of 155 runs
- RCB Score (at the time of report): 82/5 in 12 overs
- MI Captain: Harmanpreet Kaur
- RCB Captain: Smriti Mandhana
- MI Previous Performance: Two-time WPL Champions, defending champions
- MI Innings Highlights: Sajeewan Sajana scored 45 runs and Nicola Carey 40 runs. Nadine de Klerk took four wickets.
- RCB Innings Highlights: Smriti Mandhana and Grace Harris put on an opening partnership of 40 runs.
Key Takeaways
- The Mumbai Indians’ batting performance was salvaged by a strong partnership in the middle overs, enabling them to set a competitive total.
- RCB’s chase is faltering due to consistent loss of wickets, placing pressure on the remaining batters.
- The opening match drew significant attention, indicated by the grand opening ceremony featuring Yo Yo Honey Singh and other celebrities.