Delhi Capitals’ journey in Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 league stage was no less than a thriller, yet it once again highlighted why they are one of the most consistent teams in the tournament’s history. Three-time finalists, Delhi qualified for the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season, surviving a campaign filled with close losses, pressure situations, and timely fightbacks.
Delhi began their season against Mumbai Indians and faced a harsh reality check straight away. Mumbai put up a massive 195, exposing Delhi’s bowling early in the tournament. In reply, Delhi struggled to keep up with the required run rate and were bowled out for 145 in 19 overs, losing the match by 50 runs. The defeat left them searching for answers, and the second match brought more heartbreak.
Against the Gujarat Giants, the contest turned into a run fest. Gujarat posted 209, Nandni Sharma’s exceptional five wicket haul against Gujarat, which showcased Delhi’s bowling potential. Delhi responded bravely, reaching 205. Lizelle Lee played a stunning knock of 86 off 54 balls, while Laura Wolvaardt dazzled with 77 off just 38 balls. Despite the effort, Delhi fell short by just four runs, making it two losses from two matches.
With their backs against the wall, the third match against UP Warriors became crucial. Delhi finally found their rhythm, chasing down UP’s 154 with confidence. Lizelle Lee once again anchored the innings with 67 off 44 balls as Delhi reached 158 to register their first win of the season by seven wickets. Even in earlier defeats, there were positives.
However, consistency continued to elude them. Delhi’s next game against Royal Challengers Bangalore ended in disappointment as they were bowled out for 166 in 20 overs. RCB chased the target comfortably in 18.2 overs, handing Delhi an eight-wicket defeat.
Just when the campaign seemed to slip away, Delhi produced a remarkable comeback. They defeated Mumbai Indians by seven wickets after restricting them to 154/5 in 20 overs. Captain Jemimah Rodrigues led from the front with a composed 51* off 37 balls, while Lizelle Lee provided support with a quick 46 off 28. N Sree Charani’s three wicket spell proved decisive in that win.
Delhi then delivered one of their best performances of the season against an unbeaten RCB side. They bowled RCB out for just 109, with Nandni Sharma claiming three wickets and Marizanne Kapp, Chinelle Henry, and Minnu Mani picking up two each. Delhi chased the target in just 15.4 overs, winning by seven wickets and boosting their net run rate significantly.
Yet again, heartbreak followed as Delhi lost their fixture against Gujarat Giants by a narrow three run margin, scoring 171 in reply to Gujarat’s 174. With RCB and Gujarat already qualified, Delhi needed a win to stay alive. The final league match turned into a do-or-die encounter for Delhi Capitals as they faced UP Warriors with a playoff spot on the line. Adding to the drama was the presence of Meg Lanning, the former Delhi captain who had led the franchise to finals in the first three seasons.
This time, however, she stood on the opposite side, leading UP Warriors. To keep their campaign alive, Delhi had to overcome not just a strong UP side but also their former leader. Rising to the occasion, Delhi did exactly that, defeating Meg Lanning’s UP Warriors to seal their place in the playoffs. Rising to the challenge, they restricted UP to 122 and chased it down in 18.4 overs to secure third place in the table and final spot in the playoffs.
Now set to face Gujarat Giants in the eliminator on 3 February 2026, Delhi Capitals once again stand on the brink. Having reached every WPL final so far but still without a trophy, the big question remains will this finally be Delhi’s year to turn consistency in a championship?
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