Delhi Capitals secured a spot in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 eliminators with a comprehensive win over UP Warriorz, as their bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict the opposition to a modest total.
Captain Jemimah Rodrigues credited the bowling unit for executing plans under pressure and maintaining composure throughout the match.
“We were always assured we were a good team. It was about keeping things simple and executing. Everyone was really calm and professional. Our bowlers have been doing a great job. They have been brave enough to stick to their strengths. We still speak about how we can be positive,” Rodrigues said during the post-match presentation.
UP Warriorz, asked to bat first, struggled to build momentum and were restricted to 122 for 8 in their 20 overs. None of their batters managed to cross the 30-run mark on a challenging surface.
Deepti Sharma top-scored with 24 off 19 balls, which included four boundaries and a six. Simran Shaikh contributed 22 off 14 deliveries, while Shikha Pandey added an unbeaten 23 off 13 balls to push the total past the 120-run mark.
For Delhi Capitals, Marizanne Kapp led the bowling attack with figures of 3 for 30 and was named Player of the Match.
“It’s hard to be happy if one of your skills is down, but I’m happy with the win. I was lucky to pick up wickets. Happy to strike. There’s always pressure on you to perform and lead the bowling attack. First few games I didn’t get the wickets I would have liked,” Kapp said.
Chinelle Henry (2/25) and Shree Charani (2/22) supported well, while Minnu Mani claimed one wicket and conceded just 13 runs.
In reply, Delhi Capitals chased down the target comfortably in 18.4 overs. Laura Wolvaardt anchored the innings with 47 off 36 balls, striking seven boundaries. Rodrigues provided momentum at the top with 26 off 16 deliveries, including three fours, ensuring there were no late hiccups in the chase.
Despite the loss, UP Warriorz captain Meg Lanning acknowledged her side’s effort while expressing disappointment at the outcome.
“I thought we fought it till the end nicely. We created some chances as well. Unfortunately, we didn’t get going with the bat. We just haven’t been consistent enough. It hasn’t been the season we wanted. Disappointing to finish with a loss tonight. I’m still thoroughly enjoying my cricket. Trying to get the best out of people,” Lanning said.
With the victory, Delhi Capitals confirmed their place in the eliminators and finished the league stage in third position with six points from eight matches. The Rodrigues-led side also knocked out two-time champions Mumbai Indians and UP Warriorz, who finished last on the table.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru topped the league standings, while Gujarat Giants finished second to complete the playoff line-up for the WPL 2026 season.
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