WPL 2026 playoff scenarios are heating up like never before. With only five matches left in the league stage, the race for the playoffs is a nail-biter. Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W) have already punched their ticket, but the other four teams are scrapping for the two remaining spots. This detailed analysis breaks down every twist and turn, helping cricket fans understand who might make it and why.
As a dedicated cricket news hub on IPL Star, we’re diving deep into WPL 2026 playoff scenarios. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, this guide will keep you on the edge of your seat. Let’s explore the current standings, key matches, and those explosive qualification paths that could change everything.
The Intense Battle for the Remaining Playoff Spots
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 has delivered non-stop action since kicking off on January 9. Now, after 15 matches, the playoff picture is clearer yet more chaotic. RCB-W sit comfortably at the top with 10 points from six games, their net run rate (NRR) of +1.236 acting like a fortress. But below them, Delhi Capitals Women (DC-W) and Gujarat Giants Women (GG-W) are tied at 6 points, while Mumbai Indians Women (MI-W) and UP Warriorz Women (UPW-W) trail at 4 points each.
This setup means WPL 2026 qualification hangs by a thread for most teams. One big win or loss could swing fortunes dramatically. Fans are buzzing about potential ties, where NRR becomes the ultimate decider. According to ESPNcricinfo, four teams remain in contention for two spots, making every delivery count.
What makes this season special? The unpredictability. Past WPL editions saw dominant runs, but 2026 has upsets galore. RCB-W’s five-win streak ended with a loss to DC-W, opening the door for others. Now, with matches like RCB-W vs MI-W today (January 26), the drama escalates.
Current WPL 2026 Points Table (After Match 15)
Here’s the latest WPL 2026 points table, straight from reliable sources like Times of India and ESPNcricinfo. We’ve formatted it for easy reading on mobile or desktop.
| Position | Team | Played | Won | Lost | NR | Points | NRR | Recent Form | Runs For (Overs) / Against (Overs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RCB-W (Q) | 6 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 10 | +1.236 | W W W W L | 940 (110.3) / 841 (115.4) |
| 2 | DC-W | 6 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 6 | -0.169 | L W L W W | 940 (114.4) / 990 (118.2) |
| 3 | GG-W | 6 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 6 | -0.341 | W L L L W | 1028 (120.0) / 1063 (119.2) |
| 4 | MI-W | 6 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 4 | +0.046 | W W L L L | 1022 (119.2) / 998 (117.1) |
| 5 | UPW-W | 6 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 4 | -0.769 | L L W W L | 951 (118.1) / 989 (112.1) |
This table shows RCB-W’s dominance. Their NRR is head and shoulders above the rest, per Cricbuzz stats. DC-W and GG-W hold slight edges due to more points, but MI-W’s positive NRR could be a game-changer in ties.
How the WPL 2026 Playoff Format Works
For new fans, let’s break it down simply. WPL features five teams in a double round-robin format—each plays eight games. The top three advance to playoffs.
- 1st Place: Direct entry to the final on February 5.
- 2nd vs 3rd: Eliminator on February 3, winner faces 1st in the final.
No quarterfinals or semis—just pure knockout after the league. This format rewards consistency, as seen in past seasons where NRR decided fates. In WPL 2023, Mumbai Indians won it all; 2024 saw RCB lift the trophy; 2025 had Delhi Capitals as champs. Now, 2026 could see any combo.
RCB-W are favorites for the direct final spot. But if ties happen at 10 points, NRR rules. More on that in team scenarios below.
Remaining Fixtures in WPL 2026
The final stretch is packed with must-watch games. Here’s the full list of remaining fixtures, sourced from official WPL site and Cricbuzz.
| Date | Match | Venue (Assumed Based on Schedule) |
|---|---|---|
| January 26 | RCB-W vs MI-W | Bengaluru |
| January 27 | DC-W vs GG-W | Delhi |
| January 29 | RCB-W vs UPW-W | Bengaluru |
| January 30 | GG-W vs MI-W | Ahmedabad |
| February 1 | DC-W vs UPW-W | Delhi |
These games are do-or-die. The January 27 clash between DC-W and GG-W is a virtual knockout for second spot. Similarly, GG-W vs MI-W on January 30 could eliminate one team. As per Wisden, these direct matchups will shape the playoffs.
Maximum Possible Points for Each Team
No team is out yet, but caps on points add pressure. Here’s a quick table.
| Team | Current Points | Remaining Games | Maximum Possible Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCB-W | 10 | 2 | 14 |
| DC-W | 6 | 2 | 10 |
| GG-W | 6 | 2 | 10 |
| MI-W | 4 | 2 | 8 |
| UPW-W | 4 | 2 | 8 |
Only DC-W and GG-W can challenge RCB-W at 10 points. MI-W and UPW-W max out at 8, so they need help from results elsewhere.
Key Matches That Will Decide the Playoffs
Every game matters, but some stand out.
First, today’s (January 26) RCB-W vs MI-W. MI-W need a win to stay alive; a loss drops them to slim chances. RCB-W, already qualified, might rest stars, but their depth is strong.
Next, DC-W vs GG-W on January 27. Winner jumps to 8 points, likely securing a spot. Loser faces an uphill battle.
Then, RCB-W vs UPW-W on January 29. UPW-W must win to reach 6-8 points.
GG-W vs MI-W on January 30 is another big one. The winner keeps hopes high.
Finally, DC-W vs UPW-W on February 1 could be a decider if both are in contention.
These matches could create three-way ties at 8 or 6 points, per Business Standard analysis. Fans, mark your calendars!
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W) – Already Qualified and Favourites for Direct Final
RCB-W have been the story of WPL 2026. Starting with five wins, they sealed qualification early. Their only blip? A seven-wicket loss to DC-W on January 24.
Why RCB-W Are Almost Certain Table-Toppers
With 10 points, they’re safe. One more win guarantees the direct final berth. Even two losses keep them top, thanks to NRR. Only the DC-W vs GG-W winner can match 10 points, but RCB-W’s +1.236 is unbeatable without massive swings.
In past WPLs, RCB struggled, but 2026 sees them transformed. Captain Smriti Mandhana’s leadership shines.
Impact of Their Superior Net Run Rate (+1.236)
NRR is runs scored vs conceded, adjusted for overs. RCB-W’s comes from big wins, like their 9-wicket thrashing noted on Sportskeeda. It’s miles ahead: MI-W’s +0.046 is next best among contenders.
If tied at 10, RCB-W wins the tie-breaker easily.
Remaining Games and Possible Outcomes
- vs MI-W (Jan 26): Win takes them to 12, untouchable.
- vs UPW-W (Jan 29): Another win? 14 points.
Worst case: Two losses, still top on NRR.
Key Players Driving RCB-W’s Campaign
Smriti Mandhana: 230 runs at 46 average, strike rate 134.50. Her 96 is season-high.
Nadine de Klerk: 10 wickets at 14.10 economy.
Sophie Molineux: All-round impact.
Others like Ellyse Perry add depth. As per MyKhel stats, their batting and bowling are balanced.
RCB-W’s path is clear: Maintain momentum for the final.
Delhi Capitals Women (DC-W) – Strong Contenders for Second Spot
DC-W are in pole position for playoffs. At 6 points, their recent wins over RCB-W and others show form.
Straightforward Paths to Qualification
Two wins: 10 points, top-2 likely.
One win: 8 points, enough if others stumble.
Scenarios Involving Wins, Losses, and Ties
- Win both (vs GG-W, vs UPW-W): 10 points. Challenge RCB-W for top if NRR boosts.
- Win vs GG-W, lose vs UPW-W: 8 points. Safe unless MI-W and UPW-W both win out.
- Lose vs GG-W, win vs UPW-W: 8 points. Need GG-W to lose to MI-W.
- Lose both: 6 points. Possible if ties, but NRR -0.169 hurts.
Per CricTracker, DC-W’s win over RCB keeps them alive.
Three-way tie at 8: DC-W, GG-W, MI-W possible if split results. NRR order: MI > DC > GG.
Net Run Rate Considerations for DC-W
-0.169 is middling. Big win vs GG-W could flip to positive. Loss by margin drops it further.
In ties, they beat GG-W and UPW-W but lose to MI-W on NRR.
Standout Performers So Far
NSS Sharma: 13 wickets, including 5/33. Purple Cap leader, per Olympics.com.
Lizelle Lee: 219 runs, two fifties.
Meg Lanning: 207 runs, steady anchor.
Shafali Verma: Explosive opener with 165 runs.
DC-W’s bowling edge could seal spots.
Gujarat Giants Women (GG-W) – Must Win Key Games to Secure Spot
GG-W are tied with DC-W at 6 points, but poorer NRR puts them third.
Best-Case and Realistic Qualification Paths
Two wins: 10 points, playoffs locked, possible top-2 with big margins.
One win: 8 points, need help.
Impact of Head-to-Head Results Against DC-W and MI-W
vs DC-W (Jan 27): Must-win. Victory to 8, loss to slim hopes.
vs MI-W (Jan 30): Beat them to finish ahead.
As per Sportskeeda, two wins seal it.
Net Run Rate Challenges and Opportunities
-0.341 is weak. Need huge wins to improve. In ties, they lose to MI-W and DC-W.
Recent 45-run win over UPW-W boosted it slightly.
Players to Watch in the Run-In
Sophie Devine: 199 runs, 11 wickets. All-round star.
Ashleigh Gardner: 196 runs, wickets.
Laura Wolvaardt: Consistent batter.
GG-W need stars to fire.
Mumbai Indians Women (MI-W) – Defending Champions Fighting for Survival
MI-W, two-time champs, are in unfamiliar territory at 4 points.
Why Their Net Run Rate (+0.046) Is Their Biggest Asset
Best among contenders. In ties, they top the pile.
Must-Win Scenarios and Required Results
Two wins: 8 points. Need DC-W or GG-W to lose one.
One win: 6 points, need miracles.
Per NDTV Profit, two wins should suffice.
Risks of Heavy Defeats
Big loss to RCB-W today erodes NRR.
Key Contributors Keeping Hope Alive
Harmanpreet Kaur: 240 runs, unbeaten 74*.
Nat Sciver-Brunt: 219 runs, wickets.
Amelia Kerr: 10 wickets.
MI-W’s experience could pull them through.
UP Warriorz Women (UPW-W) – Outsiders with Slim Hopes
Bottom at 4 points, worst NRR.
Required Results and Miracle Scenarios
Two wins: 8 points. Need GG-W to win both or specific losses.
One win: Out unless chaos.
Per Crictoday, rely on NRR swings.
Why Their Poor NRR (-0.769) Hurts Most
Last in order. Even ties lose.
Net Run Rate: The Ultimate Tie-Breaker in WPL 2026
NRR formula: (Runs scored/overs faced) – (Runs conceded/overs bowled).
Current ranking among contenders:
- MI-W +0.046
- DC-W -0.169
- GG-W -0.341
- UPW-W -0.769
Margins matter. A 50-run win boosts NRR by ~0.5.
Most Runs in WPL 2026
| Player | Team | Matches | Runs | HS | Average | SR | 50s | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P Litchfield | UPW-W | 6 | 243 | 78 | 40.50 | 154.77 | 2 | 30 | 10 |
| H Kaur | MI-W | 6 | 240 | 74* | 60.00 | 143.71 | 2 | 26 | 8 |
| S Mandhana | RCB-W | 6 | 230 | 96 | 46.00 | 134.50 | 1 | 36 | 4 |
| L Lee | DC-W | 6 | 219 | 86 | 36.50 | 150.00 | 2 | 31 | 7 |
| Nat Sciver-Brunt | MI-W | 5 | 219 | 70 | 54.75 | 146.97 | 3 | 32 | 3 |
Data from News18.
Most Wickets in WPL 2026
| Player | Team | Matches | Wickets | BBI | Average | Economy | SR | 4w | 5w |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSS Sharma | DC-W | 6 | 13 | 5/33 | 14.15 | 8.36 | 10.15 | 0 | 1 |
| SFM Devine | GG-W | 6 | 11 | 3/31 | 16.09 | 8.10 | 11.90 | 0 | 0 |
| N de Klerk | RCB-W | 6 | 10 | 4/26 | 14.10 | 7.05 | 12.00 | 1 | 0 |
| AC Kerr | MI-W | 5 | 10 | 3/24 | 14.70 | 7.35 | 12.00 | 0 | 0 |
| LK Bell | RCB-W | 6 | 9 | 3/26 | 15.33 | 5.75 | 16.00 | 0 | 0 |
From ESPNcricinfo records.
Most Likely Playoff Qualifications and Possible Outcomes
Predicted top 3: RCB-W 1st, DC-W 2nd, MI-W 3rd.
Alternative: If GG-W upset DC-W, they sneak in.
Predicted Top 3 Scenarios
- RCB-W top, DC-W and GG-W in eliminator.
- MI-W surge with two wins, pushing UPW-W out.
Why This WPL Season Has Been Unpredictable
Injuries, form slumps—MI-W’s hat-trick losses. RCB-W’s rise.
Final Thoughts on the Playoff Race
WPL 2026 playoff scenarios promise thrills. Stay tuned to IPL Star for updates. What do you think—who makes it? Comment below!
Frequently Asked Questions About WPL 2026 Playoff Scenarios
1. What are the current WPL 2026 playoff scenarios after Match 15?
With RCB-W already qualified at 10 points, the WPL 2026 playoff scenarios revolve around a fierce four-team battle for the remaining two spots. DC-W and GG-W lead with 6 points each, followed by MI-W and UPW-W at 4 points. Only the top three teams advance, making the final five matches crucial for WPL 2026 qualification.
2. Which teams are in contention for WPL 2026 playoff qualification?
Four teams remain in the WPL 2026 playoff race: Delhi Capitals Women (DC-W), Gujarat Giants Women (GG-W), Mumbai Indians Women (MI-W), and UP Warriorz Women (UPW-W). RCB-W have already secured their spot and are favourites to finish top with their +1.236 NRR.
3. How does the WPL 2026 playoff format work?
WPL 2026 playoff The top three teams qualify. The team finishing 1st goes straight to the final on February 5. The 2nd and 3rd-placed teams play the Eliminator on February 3, with the winner advancing to the final. Net run rate becomes the key tie-breaker in case of equal points.
4. What is the latest WPL 2026 points table?
WPL 2026 playoff As of January 26, 2026: RCB-W lead with 10 points (+1.236 NRR), followed by DC-W (6 points, -0.169 NRR), GG-W (6 points, -0.341 NRR), MI-W (4 points, +0.046 NRR), and UPW-W (4 points, -0.769 NRR).
5. Which are the most important remaining fixtures in WPL 2026?
The key matches include DC-W vs GG-W (Jan 27), GG-W vs MI-W (Jan 30), and RCB-W vs MI-W (Jan 26). These direct clashes will heavily influence the WPL 2026 playoff qualification paths.
6. Can Mumbai Indians Women still qualify for the WPL 2026 playoffs?
Yes. As defending champions, MI-W need to win both remaining games to reach 8 points. Their positive NRR (+0.046) gives them an edge in potential three-way ties, making their WPL 2026 playoff scenario realistic with favourable results elsewhere.
7. Why is net run rate so important in WPL 2026 playoff scenarios?
NRR is the ultimate tie-breaker. RCB-W’s +1.236 virtually guarantees them top spot even with losses. Among the contenders, MI-W hold the best NRR (+0.046), followed by DC-W, GG-W, and UPW-W, meaning big win margins in remaining games can dramatically shift qualification chances.
8. What does Delhi Capitals Women need for WPL 2026 playoff qualification?
DC-W are strongly placed. One win from their two remaining games should be enough for qualification, while two wins could push them to 10 points and challenge RCB-W for a direct final berth.
9. Is there any chance for UP Warriorz Women in the WPL 2026 playoff race?
UPW-W’s chances are slim. They must win both games to reach 8 points and need multiple specific results (including heavy defeats for others) plus major NRR improvement due to their poor -0.769 rating.
10. Who is most likely to join RCB-W in the WPL 2026 playoffs?
Current form and fixtures suggest DC-W are favourites for second spot, with MI-W’s superior NRR making them the strongest threat to GG-W. A DC-W vs GG-W result on January 27 will clarify the WPL 2026 playoff picture significantly.