Gautami Naik and Bowlers Power RCB to WPL Playoffs with Dominant Win
Vadodara: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their unstoppable run in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, securing a comprehensive 61-run victory over the Gujarat Giants at Kotambi Stadium. With this win, RCB has not only maintained a perfect unbeaten record but also officially booked their ticket to the playoffs.
Historic Start for Bengaluru
Smriti Mandhana’s side has now won five consecutive matches, becoming only the second team in WPL history to achieve this feat after the Mumbai Indians in 2023. The RCB vs Gujarat Giants clash highlighted the depth of Bengaluru's squad, as they recovered from a shaky start to post a winning total.
Gautami Naik’s Heroic Knock
Batting first, RCB faced early trouble at 9 for 2 after losing Grace Harris and Georgia Voll cheaply. However, uncapped Indian batter Gautami Naik stepped up when it mattered most. Showing immense maturity, Naik smashed a brilliant 73 off 55 balls. She anchored the innings and later accelerated, becoming the first uncapped Indian player to score a half-century in the WPL.
Support came from Richa Ghosh, who struck three massive sixes in a quick cameo, and Radha Yadav, helping RCB post a competitive 178 for 6. The Giants' fielding errors, including dropped catches and 21 runs given as extras, further aided Bengaluru’s cause.
Giants Crumble Under Pressure
Chasing 179, the Gujarat Giants' batting lineup collapsed spectacularly. Pacer Lauren Bell and swing bowler Sayali Satghare destroyed the top order, leaving the Giants reeling at 5 for 3 within the first few overs. Star batters Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine failed to make an impact.
Although Ash Gardner offered some resistance with a fighting 58, the target was too steep. Sayali Satghare finished with impressive figures of 3 for 21, ensuring the Giants were restricted to 117 for 8. This massive win solidifies RCB's position as the team to beat this season.
