Introduction
RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling encounters in this season’s Women’s Premier League. As the 9th match unfolds at the iconic Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, cricket fans around the world are buzzing with excitement. Both teams have kicked off the tournament on a high note, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women remaining unbeaten after two gripping victories, and Gujarat Giants Women looking to bounce back from a recent stumble. This clash isn’t just about points on the table—it’s a battle of strategies, star power, and sheer determination that could redefine the league standings.
The Women’s Premier League 2026 has already delivered edge-of-the-seat action, with high-scoring chases, last-ball finishes, and standout performances from global stars. RCB Women, led by the elegant Smriti Mandhana, have shown versatility: a nail-biting come-from-behind win against Mumbai Indians followed by a dominant dismantling of UP Warriorz. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by England’s Lauren Bell, has been miserly, while the batting lineup exudes confidence. On the other side, Gujarat Giants Women, captained by the all-round dynamo Ashleigh Gardner, started with two convincing wins but faltered against Mumbai Indians due to bowling leaks. With overseas firepower like Sophie Devine and Beth Mooney, GG Women are poised for a comeback.
What makes this RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 matchup even more tantalizing is the personal rivalries, especially Smriti Mandhana vs Ashleigh Gardner. For years, Gardner has dominated this duel, dismissing Mandhana nine times in T20s. But recent ODI form hints at a shift—Mandhana’s aggressive approach could turn the tables. As the Navi Mumbai leg nears its end, this game at DY Patil Stadium promises dew-drenched drama, spin battles, and power-hitting spectacles.
In this complete preview and analysis from IPL Star, your go-to source for IPL and WPL news, we’ll break down everything you need to know. From match details and venue insights to pitch reports, team news, key players, head-to-head stats, recent forms, and our bold prediction—this guide is crafted for die-hard cricket fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re in Pune cheering from home or tuning in globally, let’s dive deep into why this is a must-watch blockbuster.
The Women’s Premier League has evolved since its inception, blending international talent with Indian stars to create a platform that’s riveting and empowering. This season, with packed schedules and high stakes, every match counts toward the playoffs. RCB Women sit atop the table with a superior net run rate, while GG Women are right behind, making this a potential top-spot decider. External sources like ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz highlight the growing popularity of WPL, with viewership soaring and social media abuzz—posts on X (formerly Twitter) from fans and experts alike predict fireworks.
As we explore further, remember the focus: RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 isn’t just cricket; it’s a narrative of resilience and brilliance. Stick around as we unpack the venue guide next.
Match Details and Broadcast Information
As the clock ticks toward this epic showdown, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 9th match. Scheduled for today, January 16, 2026, the game kicks off at 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT) at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. The toss, a crucial factor given the dew trends, is set for 7:00 PM IST. This timing aligns perfectly with prime-time viewing, ensuring maximum engagement for fans across India and beyond.
For broadcast details, Star Sports Network holds the TV rights in India, offering coverage in multiple languages including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. Channels like Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, and regional variants will air the match live. If you’re streaming, JioHotstar is your best bet—available for free on select Jio plans or via subscription for HD quality and multi-device access. International viewers can check local partners; for instance, Willow TV in the US or Sky Sports in the UK often stream WPL games.
Ticket buying is straightforward for this open-to-public fixture after two closed-door games. Prices start at ₹100, making it accessible. Head to the official WPL website (wplt20.com), the WPL app, or partners like BookMyShow for bookings. Sales opened in late December 2025, and with the buzz around RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026, seats are filling fast—especially in the pavilion end.
Venue Guide: Dr DY Patil Sports Academy
Nestled in Navi Mumbai, the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy is a modern marvel with a capacity of 60,000. Named after the visionary educator D Y Patil, it features two ends: the Media End and Pavilion End. Since hosting WPL matches from 2023, it’s become synonymous with balanced contests—good bounce for pacers early on, turn for spinners as the game progresses, and floodlights that enhance evening spectacles.
Historically, DY Patil has seen memorable moments. In WPL 2023, it hosted the inaugural final where Mumbai Indians lifted the trophy. Fast-forward to 2026, and after eight league games this season, the venue has favored chases due to minimal dew impact so far, but experts predict it could play a role tonight. The stadium’s lush outfield and quick drainage ensure play even in light drizzle, though forecasts are clear.
Atmosphere-wise, it’s electric. Fans from Mumbai and nearby Pune flock here, creating a sea of team colors—red for RCB, orange for GG. Online resources like Wikipedia and stadium tours on YouTube describe its world-class facilities, including practice nets and VIP boxes. For cricket purists, it’s a venue where strategies shine; as per Cricbuzz analyses, teams winning the toss here often bowl first.
In short, DY Patil sets the stage for an unforgettable RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 clash.
Pitch Report and Conditions Analysis
The DY Patil Stadium pitch report for WPL 2026 has been a hot topic among analysts, and for good reason. After hosting eight league matches this season, the surface is showing signs of wear—slower, with more grip for spinners in the middle overs. Early on, there’s decent bounce for seamers like Lauren Bell, but as the innings progresses, batters need to adapt to variable pace.
Average first innings score hovers around 165-170, dropping to 150-155 in the second due to dew making the ball skid. Highest team total here? Delhi Capitals Women’s 211/4 against UP Warriorz in a previous season. Successful chases often reach 190+, but with the pitch tiring, expect scores in the 160-180 range tonight.
Dew factor in Navi Mumbai evenings is notorious—teams have chased in all games so far, as moisture makes gripping the ball tough for bowlers. Predictions suggest significant dew post 8:30 PM IST, favoring the side batting second.
Toss prediction: Bowl first, with 100% trend this leg. Captains Mandhana or Gardner will likely opt to field, chasing under lights.
| Key DY Patil WPL Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Average 1st Innings Score | 165-170 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 150-155 |
| Highest Team Total | 211/4 (DC-W vs UPW-W) |
| Highest Successful Chase | 202/4 (various) |
| Win % Batting Second | 75% |
| Spinner Economy (Middle Overs) | 6.5 |
| Pacer Economy (Powerplay) | 7.2 |
Favorable for spinners like Gardner and Yadav; pacers need variations. External analyses from ICC sites confirm this trend.
Weather Forecast for January 16, 2026
Navi Mumbai’s weather on January 16, 2026, looks ideal for cricket—no interruptions expected. Temperatures will range from 24-27°C during the match, with humidity at 50-60%, creating a comfortable yet sticky environment for players.
Light winds (5-10 km/h) from the west won’t affect play much, but they could aid swing early. Rain chance is zero, per AccuWeather and IMD forecasts—clear skies with possible haze.
This setup amplifies the dew factor, as cooling evenings promote moisture. Teams must plan accordingly; historical data from Weather.com shows similar conditions leading to chase-friendly games.
For fans in Pune, it’s similar weather—pack light, enjoy the telecast.
Team News and Probable Lineups
Team news for RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 is buzzing with no major injuries reported, but tactical tweaks are on the cards.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women
RCB Women are flying high, unbeaten with two wins showcasing depth. Bowling has been spot-on, led by Bell’s economy and de Klerk’s wickets. Batting relies on openers Harris and Mandhana, with Ghosh providing middle-order punch. No changes expected.
Probable XI: 1. Grace Harris (opener, all-rounder), 2. Smriti Mandhana (c, opener), 3. Dayalan Hemalatha (top-order), 4. Gautami Naik (all-rounder), 5. Richa Ghosh (wk, middle-order), 6. Radha Yadav (spinner), 7. Nadine de Klerk (all-rounder), 8. Arundhati Reddy (seamer), 9. Shreyanka Patil (all-rounder), 10. Linsey Smith (spinner), 11. Lauren Bell (pacer).
Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana (c) | Opening Batter |
| Lauren Bell | Bowler |
| Nadine de Klerk | Allrounder |
| Richa Ghosh | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Grace Harris | Allrounder |
| Dayalan Hemalatha | Top order Batter |
| Gautami Naik | Allrounder |
| Shreyanka Patil | Allrounder |
| Kumar Prathyoosha | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Prema Rawat | Bowler |
| Arundhati Reddy | Bowler |
| Sayali Satghare | Allrounder |
| Linsey Smith | Bowler |
| Pooja Vastrakar | Bowler |
| Georgia Voll | Top order Batter |
| Radha Yadav | Bowler |
Strengths: Balanced attack, confident leadership. Weaknesses: Middle-order yet to fire fully.
Gujarat Giants Women
GG Women seek redemption after a loss, with batting stars shining but bowling needing tightening. Anushka Sharma’s fitness is doubtful—Ayushi Soni likely retains spot.
Probable XI: 1. Beth Mooney (wk, opener), 2. Sophie Devine (opener, all-rounder), 3. Ayushi Soni (top-order), 4. Ashleigh Gardner (c, all-rounder), 5. Georgia Wareham (all-rounder), 6. Kanika Ahuja (all-rounder), 7. Bharti Fulmali (finisher), 8. Kashvee Gautam (bowler), 9. Tanuja Kanwar (spinner), 10. Rajeshwari Gayakwad (spinner), 11. Renuka Singh (pacer).
Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Ashleigh Gardner (c) | Allrounder |
| Kanika Ahuja | Allrounder |
| Yastika Bhatia | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Sophie Devine | Batting Allrounder |
| Bharti Fulmali | Middle order Batter |
| Kim Garth | Allrounder |
| Kashvee Gautam | Bowler |
| Rajeshwari Gayakwad | Bowler |
| Happy Kumari | – |
| Tanuja Kanwar | Bowler |
| Beth Mooney | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Renuka Singh | Bowler |
| Titas Sadhu | Bowler |
| Anushka Sharma | Allrounder |
| Shivani Singh | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Ayushi Soni | Allrounder |
| Georgia Wareham | Bowler |
| Danni Wyatt-Hodge | Top order Batter |
Tactics: Exploit batting depth, fix economy rates. From Cricinfo, GG’s overseas picks are key.
Players to Watch and Key Matchups
In RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026, stars will shine. Let’s spotlight them.
Smriti Mandhana (RCB): Captain fantastic, 262 runs in 10 matches at 138.62 SR. Her elegance against spin is crucial.
Ashleigh Gardner (GG): All-round threat, 246 runs and wickets. Her powerplay bowling targets left-handers.
Lauren Bell (RCB): Economy king at 3.75, no Mooney dismissal yet—but watch vs Devine.
Nadine de Klerk (RCB): 6 wickets in 2 games, death-over hero.
Beth Mooney (GG): Consistent 246 runs, strong vs pace.
Richa Ghosh (RCB): Explosive 240 runs at 172.66 SR.
Sophie Devine (GG): 141 runs this season, powerplay beast.
Bharti Fulmali (GG): Finisher with 12 sixes pre-season.
Key matchup: Mandhana vs Gardner. In 27 T20 innings, Mandhana 156 off 156, dismissed 9 times. Recent ODIs: 96 off 71, no dismissals. Epic!
Other battles: Bell vs Mooney (123 off 77, no dismissal); Devine vs Harris (mixed stats).
From X posts, fans hype these duels.
Head-to-Head Record and Past Encounters
RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women head-to-head in WPL is evenly split: 6 matches, 3 wins each.
| Date | Winner | Margin |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 27, 2025 | GG-W | 6 wickets |
| Feb 14, 2025 | RCB-W | 6 wickets |
| Mar 06, 2024 | GG-W | 19 runs |
| Feb 27, 2024 | RCB-W | 8 wickets |
| Mar 18, 2023 | RCB-W | 8 wickets |
| Another past | GG-W | Various |
Key moments: RCB’s 2024 chase dominance; GG’s 2025 defenses. Historical context from BCCI site shows rivalry growth.
Recent Form and Season Statistics
RCB-W form: WW (dominant). GG-W: WWL (batting strong, bowling leaky).
Points Table:
| Team | M | W | L | PT | NRR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RCB-W | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 1.964 |
| MI-W | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 0.469 |
| GG-W | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 0.105 |
| DC-W | 3 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -0.833 |
| UPW-W | 4 | 1 | 3 | 2 | -0.906 |
Season Stats (2026):
| Stat | GG-W | RCB-W |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 4 | 4 |
| Played | 3 | 2 |
| Won | 2 | 2 |
| Top Runs | Devine (141) | Harris (110) |
| Top Wickets | Devine (5) | de Klerk (6) |
| Total Runs Scored | 608 | 302 |
Previous Seasons Comparisons in tables too—RCB champions 2023/24.
Tactical Breakdown and Strategic Preview
Tactically, RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 hinges on powerplay aggression. RCB: Bowl tight early, chase with openers. GG: Bat big, use spinners mid-game.
Mandhana’s calm vs Gardner’s attack. Death overs: de Klerk vs Fulmali.
Fielding: Both sharp, but dew affects.
Insights from YouTube analyses emphasize adaptability.
Match Prediction
RCB Women slight favorites (60-40)—bowling edge, form. If GG bat first and post 180, upset possible.
Conclusion
This RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 clash is cricket at its best—tune in for magic!
FAQs for RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026
- When and where is the RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 9th match scheduled? The RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 9th match is scheduled for January 16, 2026, at 7:30 PM IST at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. The toss will take place at 7:00 PM IST.
- Who will win RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 match? RCB Women are slight favorites (60-40) to win the RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 clash due to their unbeaten run, superior net run rate, and strong bowling attack led by Lauren Bell and Nadine de Klerk.
- What is the pitch report for RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 at DY Patil Stadium? The DY Patil Stadium pitch for RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 is slower with grip for spinners. Average first innings score is 165-170, with significant dew favoring teams chasing. Teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first.
- What is the head-to-head record between RCB Women and Gujarat Giants Women in WPL? In the RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women head-to-head WPL record, both teams have won 3 matches each out of 6 encounters, making this 2026 matchup highly competitive.
- Who are the key players to watch in RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026? Key players include Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh for RCB Women, and Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, and Sophie Devine for Gujarat Giants Women. The Mandhana vs Gardner duel is a highlight, with Gardner dismissing Mandhana 9 times in T20s.
- What is the probable playing XI for RCB Women in WPL 2026 vs Gujarat Giants? RCB Women probable XI: Grace Harris, Smriti Mandhana (c), Dayalan Hemalatha, Gautami Naik, Richa Ghosh (wk), Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell.
- What is the probable playing XI for Gujarat Giants Women in WPL 2026 vs RCB? Gujarat Giants Women probable XI: Beth Mooney (wk), Sophie Devine, Ayushi Soni, Ashleigh Gardner (c), Georgia Wareham, Kanika Ahuja, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Tanuja Kanwar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh.
- How can I watch RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 live? Watch RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 live on Star Sports Network (TV) or stream on JioHotstar. International viewers can check Willow TV or Sky Sports.
- What is the current points table standing for RCB Women and Gujarat Giants Women in WPL 2026? RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 RCB Women lead with 4 points from 2 wins (NRR +1.964), while Gujarat Giants Women have 4 points from 3 matches (2 wins, NRR +0.105).
- What is the weather forecast for RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 match in Navi Mumbai? Clear skies with temperatures 24-27°C, 50-60% humidity, and no rain chance. RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 Dew will play a major role in the second innings of the RCB Women vs Gujarat Giants Women WPL 2026 match.