Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat U.P. Warriorz by eight wickets in the WPL 2026 clash, sealing their place in the final in emphatic fashion. After an early bowling masterclass led by de Klerk, it was the composed batting of Harris and captain Smriti Mandhana that ensured a smooth chase and underlined RCB’s dominance.

Winning the toss, Smriti Mandhana made the bold decision to bowl first, a call that proved decisive as the match progressed. While U.P. Warriorz began on a positive note, their innings lost momentum dramatically after a strong opening stand. Deepti Sharma and Meg Lanning put together a solid 74-run partnership, providing the Warriorz with a promising platform and briefly threatening to put pressure on the RCB bowlers.

However, once the opening pair was separated, the Warriorz batting lineup struggled to cope with RCB’s disciplined bowling attack. De Klerk emerged as the standout performer, using variations in pace and movement to dismantle the middle order. Regular wickets halted any chance of recovery, and the Warriorz were unable to build meaningful partnerships thereafter. Poor shot selection and mounting scoreboard pressure resulted in a below-par total, despite the strong start.

RCB’s bowlers complemented de Klerk’s efforts well, maintaining tight lines and forcing errors. The fielding unit also played its part, backing up the bowlers with sharp catching and energetic ground work. What looked like a competitive innings at one stage quickly unraveled, highlighting the Warriorz’ over-reliance on their top order.

Chasing the target, RCB showed composure and intent from the outset. Harris played a crucial role at the top, anchoring the innings with a confident and well-paced knock. Her ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries at key moments kept the required run rate comfortably in check. Smriti Mandhana, leading from the front, provided stability and class, ensuring there were no late hiccups in the chase.

The pair stitched together a decisive partnership that effectively ended the contest well before the final overs. Their understanding and shot selection reflected RCB’s growing maturity as a unit in WPL 2026. The chase was completed with ease, reinforcing RCB’s status as one of the most balanced teams in the tournament.

This comprehensive victory not only secured RCB a berth in the final but also sent a strong message to their potential opponents. Smriti Mandhana’s leadership, de Klerk’s impact with the ball, and Harris’ calm batting performance combined to produce a near-perfect team effort.

As RCB march into the final with momentum on their side, the focus will now shift to whether they can carry this form into the title clash and cap off a memorable WPL 2026 campaign.