Royal Challengers Bengaluru have turned Navi Mumbai into a virtual home venue during the WPL 2026, and no player has symbolised that dominance more than Smriti Mandhana.
Outside the DY Patil Stadium, Mandhana’s RCB jersey is the most visible among replica merchandise. At the same time, inside, the loud cheers for RCB often drown out support for the local Mumbai Indians.
On the field too, RCB have matched that backing with flawless performances, winning all four of their matches at the venue.
RCB’s success in Navi Mumbai has been built on smart team balance and adaptability to conditions that traditionally favour batters.
While the squad boasts several proven T20 hitters, the difference has been collective contribution. Different players have stepped up in every match, and against Delhi Capitals, it was Mandhana who took charge.
The conditions at DY Patil Stadium have also suited RCB’s bowling attack. Despite dew often playing a major role, RCB have managed early breakthroughs and executed slower deliveries with precision.
Their bowlers have restricted opponents to under 170 in three matches where they bowled first, highlighting their control in key phases.
Coming into the clash against the`, Mandhana had struggled for fluency this season, with starts not converting into substantial scores.
She began cautiously again, beaten early outside off, before finding rhythm through a familiar drive and growing in confidence.
From there, Mandhana took control of the chase, timing the ball sweetly and mixing elegance with power as the chants of “RCB, RCB” echoed around the stadium.
Although she fell four runs short of a maiden WPL hundred, Mandhana’s innings proved decisive. Her conscious effort to clear the ropes without losing timing was evident as she struck sixes against both pace and spin.
Chasing a competitive target, she assessed the bowling smartly and played with clarity under pressure.
RCB’s dominance extended beyond Mandhana’s innings. Lauren Bell once again set the tone with the new ball, troubling top-order batters with swing and control.
Shreyanka Patil continued her effectiveness against left-handers, while the inclusion of Georgia Voll at No. 3 added stability to the batting order with a valuable half-century.
With contributions across departments and Mandhana rediscovering her best touch, RCB appears to be a complete unit.
As they head into the Vadodara leg of the tournament, their commanding form and depth make them one of the strongest contenders in WPL 2026, regardless of venue or conditions.
