WPL 2026: Rampant RCB beat Giants to maintain unbeaten run

Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their relentless form in the Women’s Premier League with a dominant 61-run victory over Gujarat Giants that secured their place in the play-offs.

Gautami Naik, who earned her place in the RCB squad through dominant displays in domestic cricket, struck 73 off 55 balls – shepherding the visitors to 178-6.

No other batter passed 30 as Kashvee Gautam and captain Ash Gardner took two wickets apiece.

Lauren Bell once again set the tone with the ball for RCB, who reduced Giants to 5-3 and 56-6.

Bell, who has delivered more dot balls than any other bowler in the competition, built the pressure that led to destructive openers Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine falling to Sayali Satghare in the second over of the chase.

Bell then bowled Kanika Ahuja to leave the hosts 5-3 – a position they never looked like recovering from despite Gardner’s defiant half-century.

RCB, the 2024 champions, have won their first five matches and are six points clear of second-placed Mumbai Indians. (BBC)