Former RCB stars in Giants’ jersey set stage for a thriller

As the first week of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 draws to a close, one team stands tall above the rest. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the champions of WPL 2024, remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament so far. Their consistency has once again placed them firmly among the early favourites, but standing in their way today are the Gujarat Giants, a side packed with familiar faces and intriguing match-ups.

One of the most compelling storylines heading into this contest is the presence of Sophie Devine in Gujarat Giants colours. During RCB’s title-winning campaign, Devine formed a formidable opening partnership with captain Smriti Mandhana. Now, she finds herself on the opposite side. Both teams are acutely aware of the damage the former New Zealand captain can inflict, especially in this fixture. A flashback to WPL 2023 serves as a stark reminder, when Devine blasted a breathtaking 99 off just 36 balls against the Giants, which is still the highest individual score in WPL history. She came tantalisingly close to surpassing that mark again last Sunday, smashing 95 off 42 balls against Delhi Capitals. As the 36-year-old takes the field today at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, RCB will know they can afford no lapse in concentration.

Devine is not the only former RCB player donning Gujarat colours this evening. India’s pace spearhead Renuka Singh Thakur and Australian all-rounder Georgia Wareham also line up against their former franchise. Renuka has been with RCB since the inaugural season in 2023, while Wareham returns to the Giants after spending the last two seasons with Bengaluru. Having been integral parts of RCB’s bowling attack, both players bring valuable insight, particularly after extensive net sessions with RCB’s star batters like Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh.

One of the most fascinating battles to watch will be between Mandhana and Renuka. The right-arm seamer has already picked up two of her three wickets inside the powerplay. Mandhana, meanwhile, has been dismissed just once by a pacer in the powerplay this season. Their long association ensures a tactical duel where preparation and execution will be key.

Another riveting contest will feature Devine against RCB’s opening bowler Lauren Bell. Having played together for Southern Brave in The Hundred Women’s Competition last year, both players will be well aware of each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities.

While Gujarat’s opening pair of Beth Mooney and Devine has looked assured, RCB’s combination of Grace Harris and Mandhana has been equally destructive. It will be interesting to see whether Giants captain Ashleigh Gardner opts to introduce herself with the ball inside the powerplay to rein in the aggressive RCB openers.

RCB enter the match on the back of two victories, while the Giants, after winning their first two games, suffered a setback against defending champions Mumbai Indians in their previous outing. With crucial points at stake, which side will move to six points today?

Head-to-Head (last 5 matches)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 3 | Gujarat Giants – 2

Match details

Date: January 16, 2026

Time: 7:30 PM

Venue: Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai

Live streaming: Star Sports Network, JioHotstar