The Women’s Premier League 2026 season got off to a gripping start as Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women edged past Mumbai Indians Women by three runs in the tournament’s opening match at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. The high-intensity contest set the tone for the season, delivering drama, momentum shifts, and individual brilliance in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Batting first, Mumbai Indians Women posted a competitive 154 for 6 in 20 overs after being put in to bat. Their innings was built around a steady start in the powerplay, followed by calculated acceleration through the middle overs. The top order focused on strike rotation, ensuring the scoreboard kept moving despite disciplined bowling from RCBW.
As the innings progressed, MIW found timely boundaries through the middle order, but Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women struck back with crucial wickets to prevent a late onslaught. Tight overs at the death ensured Mumbai were restricted to a total that was challenging yet defendable on a surface offering good value for shots.
In response, Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women approached the chase with intent. The opening pair laid a positive foundation, mixing caution with controlled aggression. The middle overs proved decisive, as RCBW maintained the required run rate despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Mumbai’s bowlers applied pressure through variations and smart field placements, turning the contest into a tense battle.
The final overs brought the match to a dramatic climax. With runs needed off the last two overs, RCBW’s lower middle order held their nerve, finding boundaries at crucial moments while rotating strike effectively. Despite a spirited bowling effort from Mumbai Indians Women in the closing stages, Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women crossed the line at 157 for 7 in 20 overs, sealing a memorable three-run victory.
Smriti Mandhana was named Player of the Match for her influential knock at the top of the order, which provided stability and momentum during the chase under pressure.
The result gives Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women an early boost in the WPL 2026 campaign, while Mumbai Indians Women, despite the narrow loss, will take confidence from their competitive all-round performance. As the tournament unfolds, this opening clash served as a strong reminder of the fine margins and high-quality cricket that define the Women’s Premier League.