The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 collision between Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women and Capitals of Delhi Women have witnessed a notable absence, with injuries and strategic decisions playing a key role in shaping the playing XIs. RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first, both captains — Smriti Mandhana and Rodrogue — clarify why players like it Chinelle Henry and Arundhati Reddy it was impossible to participate in the competition.
Smriti Mandhana reveals why Arundhati Reddy didn’t play today’s game
Speaking at the toss, Mandhana highlighted the excitement around the match, noting the presence of a strong crowd for the positive energy at the ground. With RCB electing to field first, Mandhana confirmed three changes to the line-up, one of which was a forced change.
Reddy, a regular part of RCB’s bowling unit, was ruled out after taking a turn for the worse. Sayali Satghare. Mandhana clarified that the team has little choice in the matter, stressing that the health of the players remains a priority. In addition to this change, Georgia is complete brought to Lynsey Smithwhile Prema Rawat replaced Leaning HemalathaDecisions that are more tactical in nature as RCB try to maintain balance while bowling first.
Mandhana expressed her satisfaction with how the squad has adjusted so far, noting that the team atmosphere and pace have helped make for a smooth transition despite the personnel changes.
“Today we would like to field first. We have three changes today. (Georgia) Voll Linsey (Smith), Prema (Rawat) (Dayalan) for Hemalatha and Arundhati (Reddy) is sick, so Sayali (Satghare) comes in,” Mandhana said during the shooting.
Chinelle Henry was left out as the DC debut for Lucy Hamilton
On the other hand, Delhi Capitals captain Rodrigues confirmed that Henry was ruled out due to an injury sustained in the previous game. Unlike RCB’s change due to illness, Henry’s absence was prudent, with the team management opting not to risk aggravating the injury midway through the tournament.
Rodrigues made it clear Lucy Hamilton Was included in the 11th as a substitute, marking his WPL debut. The DC captain spoke highly of Hamilton, describing him as a young man with leadership experience who has captained Australia Under-19s. Rodrigues’ familiarity with Hamilton from their time together at the Brisbane Heat also boosted the debutant’s confidence that he is ready for the big stage.
“We have one change. Henry is out because of an injury in the last game and we have Lucy Hamilton coming in to make her debut tonight. We played together at Brisbane Heat. She’s young. She’s also managed Australia’s under-19s.” Rodrigues said.
Contrasting destinies in the scoreboard
The changes come at a crucial time for both teams. RCB come into the match unbeaten having won all their three matches so far and sitting comfortably at the top of the points table. Their consistent performances have allowed them to rotate players without breaking the rhythm.
In contrast, Delhi Capitals find themselves at the bottom with just one win from three games. Injuries like Henry’s have exacerbated their struggles, forcing them to test bench strength and blood new faces as they search for momentum in the tournament.
Both sides play 11
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (XI Game): Grace Harris, Smriti Mandhana(c), Georgia Voll, Richa Ghosh(w), Gautami Naik, Nadine de Klerk, Radha Yadav, Prema Rawat, Shreyanka Patil, Sayali Satghare, Lauren Bell
Delhi Capitals (Game 11): Shafali Verma, Lizelle Lee(w), Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues(c), Marizanne Kapp, Lucy Hamilton, Sneh Rana, Niki Prasad, Minnu Mani, Nandni Sharma, Shree Charani
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This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
