Grace Harris blitz helps RCB Women cruise past UP Warriorz in WPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB) delivered a statement performance in the 5th match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, defeating UP Warriorz (UPW) by nine wickets at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. 

After winning the toss, RCB opted to bowl and were rewarded early as they kept runs in check and struck regularly to restrict UP Warriorz to 143 for 5 in their 20 overs. UP Warriorz’s innings was anchored by useful contributions from their middle order and lower middle order batters as the top order players didn't perform. Deepti Sharma (45) and Deandra Dottin (40) made a stable partnership that helped them put up a decent score. 

The RCB bowling unit executed their plans well, applying consistent pressure and preventing any sustained acceleration from the Warriorz lineup. Shreyanka Patil and Nadine de Klerk claimed two wickets each. 

Mandhana, Harris script powerful chase for RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women’s chase was clinical from the outset. The openers wasted no time in asserting control, with Grace Harris delivering a breathtaking performance at the top of the order. Harris scored a fiery 85 off just 40 balls, smashing boundaries at will and keeping the required rate under control. Her aggression allowed RCB to chase down the total with authority, reaching 145 for 1 in just 12.1 overs. 

Captain Smriti Mandhana played a supportive role, providing stability alongside Harris with a brisk 47 off 32 balls. The duo’s partnership not only took the pressure off early but also let RCB transition smoothly from defence to offence. With the match secured so decisively, the contest was effectively over long before the halfway mark of their allotted overs.

Where to watch WPL 2026 matches?

Cricket fans in India can watch the WPL 2026 matches from January 9 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

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