RCB vs GG, WPL 2026, match 9: Preview, H2H stats, when and where to watch in India?
The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 intensifies as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faces Gujarat Giants (GG) in Match 9 at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on January 16.
Last Updated: 04.32 PM, Jan 15, 2026
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is heating up as the action returns to the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy this Friday. Match 9 features a high-stakes encounter between the currently undefeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and a rejuvenated Gujarat Giants (GG).
Match details
Match: RCB vs GG, WPL 2026, match 9
Date: Friday, January 16, 2026
Tine: 7.30 PM IST
Venue: DY Patil Stadium
Where can I watch the RCB vs GG, WPL 2026 match online?
Cricket fans in India can watch the RCB vs GG, WPL 2026 match on JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium.
Head-to-head stats
Historically, this has been one of the most balanced rivalries in the WPL. Across six previous encounters, the spoils are shared exactly down the middle.
The rivalry is defined by explosive individual performances, most notably Sophie Devine’s legendary 99 off 36 balls for RCB in the inaugural season and Beth Mooney’s consistent run-scoring for the Giants.
Preview
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been the team to beat this season. Despite the high-profile absence of Ellyse Perry, Smriti Mandhana’s side has looked clinical, securing back-to-back dominant victories.
Their recent nine-wicket thrashing of UP Warriorz, where they chased down 143 in just 12.1 overs, has sent their Net Run Rate ($+1.964$) soaring.
The blend of aggressive opening stands and a disciplined bowling unit led by Lauren Bell and Nadine de Klerk has made them the early title favorites.
On the other side, the Gujarat Giants have undergone a total transformation. After finishing at the bottom in previous editions, they started 2026 with two consecutive 200-plus scores.
Although they suffered a recent setback against the Mumbai Indians, the Giants remain a dangerous outfit. Skipper Ashleigh Gardner has weaponized a batting order that now prioritizes a high strike rate, making them the fastest-scoring team in the league this year.
Team news
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
The big story for RCB remains the absence of Ellyse Perry, who withdrew for personal reasons. However, Grace Harris has stepped into the "finisher" role perfectly, evidenced by her blistering 85* in the last outing. Georgia Voll has provided stability at the top, allowing Smriti Mandhana to play freely.
Gujarat Giants
Gujarat has faced some injury concerns early on. Yastika Bhatia has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament, and Anushka Sharma is sidelined with a minor injury. However, the form of Georgia Wareham and Sophie Devine (who moved to GG for this season) gives them immense power in the middle order.