WPL 2026 - Match 9 : Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Gujarat Giants by 32 runs
WPL 2026 - Match 9 : Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Gujarat Giants by 32 runs
16 January 2026 | Navi Mumbai
Match Result Snapshot
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Gujarat Giants Women by 32 runs in Match 9 of the WPL 2026. After recovering from early setbacks to post a competitive 182/7, RCB bowled with precision to dismiss Gujarat for 150 in 18.5 overs.
The result highlighted RCB’s growing confidence and depth, as both their middle-order batting and bowling unit stepped up decisively in a high-pressure contest.
How the Match Turned
RCB’s innings appeared in trouble early after losing four wickets inside the powerplay. Gujarat Giants applied early pressure, forcing mistakes and briefly controlling the tempo of the game.
The turning point came through a resilient middle-order partnership that rebuilt the innings methodically. The game shifted decisively during the fifth-wicket partnership between Radha Yadav and Richa Ghosh, who added 105 runs after RCB were reduced to 43/4. Their stand not only stabilised the innings but also flipped the pressure back onto Gujarat. Calm strike rotation followed by controlled acceleration in the final overs allowed RCB to cross the 180-run mark, transforming a fragile situation into a position of strength.
In response, Gujarat Giants never fully recovered from regular wickets. While there were flashes of aggressive intent, RCB’s bowlers struck at key moments, ensuring the chase never gained sustained momentum.
Key Performances
- Radha Yadav (RCB): Anchored the innings with a match-defining 66 off 47 balls, stabilising RCB after early losses.
- Richa Ghosh (RCB): Played a crucial counter-attacking knock of 44 off 28 balls, lifting the scoring rate in the middle overs.
- Shreyanka Patil (RCB): Delivered a sensational bowling performance, claiming 5/23 to dismantle Gujarat Giants’ batting lineup.
- Lauren Bell (RCB): Provided strong support with the ball, finishing with figures of 3/29 and applying pressure at both ends.
- Bharti Fulmali (GG): Fought back with a brisk 39 off 20 balls, but lacked support from the other end.
RCB’s ability to recover with the bat and then dominate with the ball proved decisive in securing a comprehensive victory.
Numbers That Mattered
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
182/7 in 20 overs
Strong recovery after early collapse
Gujarat Giants
150 all out in 18.5 overs
Collapsed under sustained pressure
Best Bowling
Shreyanka Patil – 5/23
Game-changing spell
Winning Margin
32 Runs
Clear dominance by RCB
What This Result Means
This victory further strengthens Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women’s position in the WPL 2026 standings. Their resilience under pressure and the emergence of match-winning bowling performances underline their status as strong title contenders.
For Gujarat Giants Women, the loss exposes concerns around batting consistency and handling pressure during run chases. While individual efforts provided hope, the lack of partnerships proved costly against a disciplined RCB side.