Watch: RCB pacer starts WPL 2026 with a sensational maiden over vs MI
RCB pacer Lauren Bell delivers a brilliant maiden over to start WPL 2026, putting Mumbai Indians under pressure and giving Royal Challengers Bengaluru a perfect early boost.
The fourth season of the Women’s Premier League kicked off in grand style on Friday night at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, combining glamour, music and high-quality cricket. While the opening ceremony grabbed plenty of attention, it was RCB pacer Lauren Bell who made the biggest early impact once the action began, delivering a superb maiden over to set the tone for WPL 2026.
Before the first ball was bowled, the crowd witnessed a star-studded ceremony. Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Sandhu opened the event with an inspiring speech highlighting the power and progress of women in sport and society. She was followed by actor Jacqueline Fernandez, who lit up the stage with a high-energy dance performance. The celebrations peaked when rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh thrilled fans with his chart-topping hits, ensuring a memorable start to the season.
Lauren Bell’s maiden over gives RCB a perfect start in WPL 2026
Once the festivities concluded, Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Smriti Mandhana won the toss and elected to field against Mumbai Indians. The decision paid off immediately. Given the new ball, Lauren Bell produced a dream opening over, swinging the ball sharply and using her height to extract extra bounce.
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Bowling to Amelia Kerr, Bell repeatedly beat the outside edge, asking serious questions with every delivery. Kerr was pinned in her crease as Bell maintained a tight line and length, conceding no runs in the first over of WPL 2026. The maiden over not only built early pressure on Mumbai Indians but also lifted the energy within the RCB camp.
Although Mumbai found some relief later through G Kamalini’s crisp boundaries, RCB’s strong start was built on Bell’s disciplined spell. Her opening over was a clear statement of intent, underlining Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s plans to begin the new Women's Premier League season on a dominant note.
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