Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Smriti Mandhana produced a moment that captured the true spirit of women’s cricket as she warmly embraced Delhi Capitals (DC) captain Jemimah Rodrigues after the Women’s Premier League (WPL) final on February 5 in Vadodara. The emotional exchange, which quickly went viral across social media platforms, showcased the deep bond between two of India’s brightest stars, even on a night defined by contrasting fortunes.
RCB clinched their second consecutive WPL title with a thrilling six-wicket victory, further cementing their dominance in the league. For DC, however, it was another heartbreaking finale, as they finished runners-up for the fourth straight season. Rodrigues, who took over the captaincy this year, had spoken confidently about her side’s belief in finally crossing the last hurdle.
Delhi Capitals had looked the most consistent team throughout the tournament, but on the big night, RCB were simply a step ahead. Despite the pain of defeat, Rodrigues found comfort in Mandhana, her close friend and long-time teammate in the Indian setup. Their friendship goes beyond the boundary ropes, forged through years of shared highs and lows in international cricket.
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Moments like these remind fans that fierce competition can coexist with genuine camaraderie, a quality that continues to define the growth of women’s cricket in India.
when I burst into tears… pic.twitter.com/HF84VunYv3
— megh/মেঘ • (@hazeyjanei) February 5, 2026
Earlier in the final, Delhi Capitals posted a strong 203 for four after being asked to bat first. Openers Laura Wolvaardt and Lizelle Lee laid a steady platform before Rodrigues anchored the innings with a fluent 57 off 37 balls. Chinelle Henry’s late surge, a blistering 35 off 15 deliveries, provided the finishing touch and gave DC a total that looked competitive on paper.
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RCB’s chase, however, was a statement of intent. After the early dismissal of Grace Harris, Mandhana and Georgia Voll took complete control of the contest. Their commanding 165-run partnership deflated the DC bowling attack and ensured the required rate never became a concern. Mandhana led from the front with a match-winning 87 off 41 balls, while Voll complemented her with a composed 79 off 54 deliveries. RCB sealed the record chase with two balls to spare, capping off a dominant WPL campaign with another well-deserved title.
