The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is right 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 premier finisher and wicketkeeper, Richa Ghosh. During the conversation, Richa shared her insights on the upcoming matches, potential breakout stars, and her personal expectations. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if this edition can top the previous seasons in terms of intensity and talent. Richa’s responses have already sparked significant discussion regarding the favorites for the opening clash and the overall title.
Richa Ghosh’s WPL 2026 predictions
- World Cup Star to Watch: She believes Smriti Mandhana will shine the most this season.
- Opening Match Prediction: Richa is confident that RCB will win their opening clash against Mumbai Indians because both she and Smriti Mandhana are in the team.
- WPL 2026 Champion: She naturally backs RCB as her first choice but notes that UP Warriorz have built a very strong combination this year and could also be title contenders.
- Highest Six-Hitter: Richa picks herself for this category, provided she gets enough opportunities to hit.
- Death Overs Specialists: She believes both Nadine de Klerk and herself will make the biggest impact in the final 5-10 overs due to their power-hitting abilities.
- Calmest Mind: She selects Ellyse Perry for having the smartest shot selection and the calmest demeanor during high-pressure “crunch” moments.
Also READ: Aakash Chopra predicts the winner and Orange Cap holder for WPL 2026 edition
Performance of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League so far
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have experienced the ultimate highs and lows of the WPL. After a disappointing inaugural season in 2023, they made history in 2024 by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final to secure their maiden title, sparked by Richa’s legendary 51* (29) earlier in that campaign. However, the 2025 season was a title hangover year, where the team failed to make the playoffs, losing five out of eight matches.
Heading into 2026, the franchise faces its biggest test yet following the shock withdrawal of their greatest legend, Ellyse Perry. In response, the management has pivoted to a strategy centered around Richa as the primary finisher and Smriti Mandhana as the tactical leader. With a revamped bowling attack featuring Pooja Vastrakar and Lauren Bell, RCB are betting on ‘Role Clarity’ over ‘Star Power’ to bring the trophy back to Bengaluru.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
