RCB, GG aim to build on positive start to WPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have had the perfect start to WPL 2026, with two contrasting victories. A last-ball comeback win against Mumbai Indians was followed by a dominant performance against UP Warriorz, boosting their confidence.

RCB's bowling attack, led by new recruit Lauren Bell, has been exceptional. Bell has an economy rate of 3.75 runs per over—the only bowler in the tournament below four—and a dot-ball percentage of 70.8%. She is well-supported by Nadine de Klerk, who has taken six wickets.

With the bat, the opening partnership of Grace Harris and Smriti Mandhana has set strong foundations, while de Klerk played a memorable innings to rescue RCB in a tight finish. The middle-order is yet to fully contribute, but the team has plenty of positives.

Gujarat Giants also began with two wins. Their overseas batters—Sophie Devine, Ash Gardner, and Georgia Wareham—have performed consistently, with Anushka Sharma impressing in the first game. Bharti Fulmali has finished games effectively, and Kanika Ahuja will be motivated against her former side.

However, Gujarat's bowling has been costly, particularly in their loss to Mumbai Indians. Renuka Singh Thakur has the best economy among their bowlers at 8.10, an area they need to address.

As the WPL moves to its final stages at Navi Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium, this clash promises to be exciting.

When: Friday, January 16 at 7:30 PM IST
Where: DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
What to expect: Pitches are showing wear, but dew may influence teams to bowl first.

Gujarat Giants: Anushka Sharma is expected to return if fit, replacing Ayushi Soni.
Probable XI: Beth Mooney (wk), Sophie Devine, Anushka Sharma/Ayushi Soni, Ashleigh Gardner (C), Kanika Ahuja, Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwer, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Thakur

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Unlikely to change a winning combination barring injuries.
Probable XI: Grace Harris, Smriti Mandhana (C), Dayalan Hemalatha, Gautami Naik, Richa Ghosh (wk), Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell