Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women vs Gujarat Giants Women – Match Preview (WPL 2026, Match 9)

Date: January 16, 2026
Time: 14:00 GMT | 19:30 IST | 19:30 Local
Venue: Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai
Series: 2026 Women's Premier League
Tournament Format: Double Round Robin
Match Number: Match 9

Match Overview

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCBW) will face the Gujarat Giants Women (GGW) in Match 9 of the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. This highly anticipated clash will take place on January 16, 2026, and promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the league's most competitive teams.

Team Form and Performance

Gujarat Giants Women (GGW)

Gujarat Giants, the defending champions, have shown their mettle so far in the tournament. However, they recently suffered a 7-wicket loss to Mumbai Indians, which was a rare dip in form. Key performers for GGW include:

• Sophie Devine: The Australian all-rounder has been the team’s standout performer, scoring 141 runs at an average of 47 and taking 5 wickets at an average of 21.
• Ashleigh Gardner: Another versatile player, Gardner has contributed 134 runs at an average of 44.66 and has been effective with the ball too.
• Renuka Thakur: The pacer has been a consistent wicket-taker, with 3 wickets in 3 matches.

Despite the recent loss, Gujarat remain a formidable side, especially with their top-order firepower and all-round capabilities.

Royal Challers Bengaluru Women (RCBW)

RCB Women have been in red-hot form, winning both their opening matches. Their recent 9-wicket win over UP Warriorz showcases their depth and ability to chase down targets with ease. Key performers for RCB include:

• Grace Harris: The Australian opener has been in sensational form, scoring 110 runs at an average of 55 and a strike rate of 211.53.
• Smriti Mandhana: The Indian captain has been steady, contributing 65 runs in two matches, and remains the backbone of the side.
• Lauren Bell: The English all-rounder has been a revelation with the ball, taking 3 wickets in 2 matches at an economy rate of 3.75.

RCB’s balanced squad and consistent performances make them a strong contender for victory.

Head-to-Head Record

In their last 5 encounters:

• Gujarat Giants: 2 wins
• Royal Challers Bengaluru: 3 wins

Despite GGW's recent struggles, the historical edge goes to RCB, who have won more often in the last few meetings.

Venue Insights – Dr DY Patil Sports Academy

The venue has historically been a batting paradise, with the following stats from T20 matches (2022–2026):

• Average First Innings Score: 179.14
• Winning Percentage (Batting Second): 68%
• Wickets per Innings (Second Innings): 4.69

The pitch is known for its pace and bounce, offering early opportunities for seamers, while spinners find it challenging. The weather is expected to be clear with slight haze, favoring aggressive batting in the powerplay.

Key Players to Watch

Match Predictions

• Toss Prediction: Royal Challers Bengaluru
• Match Winner Prediction: Gujarat Giants
• Top Batsman: Sophie Devine (Gujarat Giants)
• Top Bowler: Lauren Bell (RCB)
• Player of the Match: Sophie Devine (Gujarat Giants)

Tactical Insights

• Gujarat Giants will look to leverage the experience of Sophie Devine and Ashleigh Gardner to post a competitive total. Their bowlers, particularly Renuka Thakur, will aim to exploit the pace of the pitch early on.
• RCB will focus on a strong start with Grace Harris and Smriti Mandhana, while their spinners and all-rounders like Lauren Bell and Nadine de Klerk will provide crucial breakthroughs.

Final Verdict

This match is a must-watch as it pits a high-octane RCB side against a resurgent Gujarat Giants outfit. While RCB’s current form is impressive, Gujarat’s star power and experience could tip the scales in their favor. The toss could be crucial, especially on a pitch that favors the chasing team.

Live Streaming and Viewing Options

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar App/Website
• Live Score Updates: MyFinal11
• TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network

Conclusion

The RCBW vs GGW clash on January 16, 2026, is set to be an exciting contest between two of the WPL’s top teams. With key players in form and a high-scoring pitch in play, the match is likely to be a close battle, with the outcome dependent on the toss and the execution of game plans by both sides.

Stay tuned for live updates and expert analysis as the action unfolds at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy.
“`