The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is just around the corner and the excitement is building as the five franchises prepare for another high-octane season. Ahead of the much-anticipated tournament, Star Sports conducted an exclusive interview with India’s top finisher and wicketkeeper. Richa Ghosh. During the conversation, Richa shared his thoughts on the upcoming matches, potential stars and his personal expectations. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if this edition can top the previous seasons in terms of intensity and talent. Richa’s answers have already sparked considerable debate about the favorites for the opening clash and the overall title.
Richa Ghosh’s WPL 2026 Predictions
- World Cup star to watch: He believes that Smriti Mandhana will shine the most this season.
- Opening Match Prediction: Richa is confident of winning RCB’s opening match against Mumbai Indians as both she and Smriti Mandhana are in the squad.
- WPL 2026 Champion: He naturally backs RCB as his first pick but notes that UP Warriorz have fielded a very strong combination this year and could be title contenders as well.
- Highest Six Hits: Richa selects herself for this category provided she gets enough opportunities to shoot.
- Specialists in the fight against death: He believes he will make the biggest impact in the last 5-10 due to both Nadine de Klerk and his own strong hitting ability.
- The calmest mind: He singles out Ellyse Perry for smartest shot selection and calmest demeanor in high-pressure “crash” moments.
Also READ: Aakash Chopra predicts the winner and Orange Cap holder for WPL 2026 edition
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s performance so far in the Women’s Premier League
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru They have experienced the highs and lows of the WPL. After an unsuccessful first season in 2023, they made history by winning in 2024. Capitals of Delhi Richa’s legendary 51* (29) to secure his maiden title in the finals sparked earlier this campaign. However, the 2025 season was a title hangover year in which the team failed to make the playoffs, losing five out of eight matches.
Heading into 2026, the franchise faces its biggest challenge yet the shock withdrawal of their biggest legend, Ellyse Perry. In response, management shifted to a strategy centered around the main finisher and Richa Smriti Mandhana as a tactical leader. With a revamped bowling attack Pooja Vastrakar and Lauren BellRCB is betting on ‘Role Clarity’ over ‘Star Power’ to bring the trophy back to Bangalore.
This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
