The first match of the WPL 2026 did not disappoint when it came to entertainment as Royal Challengers Bengaluru won over Mumbai Indians by three wickets at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. An incredible unbeaten knock by Nadine de Klerk helped RCB to win the match between RCB vs MI by 3 wickets.
The Match-Winning Masterclass of Nadine de Klerk
Nadine de Klerk played the match-winner for RCB with her 63 off 44 not out. The South African all-rounder hit seven fours and two sixes, making full use of the lapses in the Mumbai fielding and holding her nerves in the tight final over to seal a thrilling finish that earned her widespread accolades.
Mumbai Indians Set a Target of 155
After winning the toss and deciding to bowl, RCB took initial scalps. MI struggled at the beginning as Lauren Bell bowled an over that was a maiden over and scalped Amelia Kerr for a low score. Richa Ghosh took an impressive catch to get Nat Sciver-Brunt out, and Shreyanka Patil scalped a partnership wicket.
Although MI had a stuttered start, they got some momentum through SS Sajana (45 off 25) and Nicola Carey (40), and eventually scored 154/6 in 20 overs.
RCB’s Rocky Chase and Middle-Order Collapse
Chasing a total of 155 runs, RCB had a good start courtesy Smriti Mandhana and Grace Harris. But soon after, the fall of Mandhana to Shabnim Ismail led to a collapse. Harris, Hemalatha, and Yadav got out one after the other, putting the team under huge pressure. Wickets tumbling, the match seemed to favor MI, but then Nadine de Klerk took charge of the innings.
Read More
Final Over Drama: De Klerk Seals the Win
The last over, bowled by Nat Sciver-Brunt, became a thriller in its own right. De Klerk hit two sixes and a four, and the equation suddenly became much easier. Needing only two runs to win off the last ball, she smashed a boundary to long off. RCB concluded on 157/7 and won the RCB vs MI WPL 2026 opening match by three wickets.
Key Highlights from RCB vs MI, WPL 2026
Nadine de Klerk: 63* (44 balls), Player of the Match performance
MI score: 154/6 (20 overs)
Read More
RCB score: 157/7 (20 overs)
Result: RCB won by 3 wickets
ALSO READ: Hobart Hurricanes vs Adelaide Strikers: Hurricanes Cruise To Dominant Big Bash League Victory
