TATA WPL 2026: Five Fierce Rivalries from Previous Seasons

By: WE Staff

As the TATA Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is about to begin on Friday, January 9, 2026, cricket enthusiasts are brimming with anticipation for another season of high-quality women’s cricket. Let’s have a look at five key rivalries that shaped previous WPL seasons.

In just three editions, the WPL has established itself as a premier global T20 league that delivers thrilling contests, iconic performances, and intense team battles that resonate far beyond the boundary ropes. Fans are eagerly waiting to witness fiery spells, clutch knocks, and tactical face-offs between some of the finest players and franchises in the women’s game.

So far, the league has seen two champions etch their names into WPL history. Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have lifted the coveted trophy, while Delhi Capitals (DC) have endured the agony of finishing as runners-up on two occasions, underlining both their consistency and unfinished business. Meanwhile, Gujarat Giants (GG) and UP Warriorz (UPW) continue their pursuit of a maiden title, adding competitiveness and fire to the upcoming season.

With WPL 2026 set to follow a tightly contested league stage and a high-stakes playoff format, old rivalries are expected to reignite with renewed intensity. The Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine brings five key rivalries that shaped previous WPL seasons, which you must know and remember.

Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals

At the heart of the WPL lies the rivalry between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals, a contest forged through consistency and repeated clashes on the biggest stage. These two teams have set themselves apart as the league’s most reliable performers. Mumbai’s strength lies in its depth and balance, with match-winners across batting, bowling, and all-round departments. Delhi, meanwhile, has thrived on tactical clarity and discipline, often controlling games through smart leadership and structured plans.

What elevates this rivalry is its history in finals and playoffs. High-stakes encounters have often gone down to fine margins, reinforcing MI’s reputation for handling pressure and DC’s resilience despite falling just short. Players like Nat Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews have been central to Mumbai’s success, while Meg Lanning’s authority has defined Delhi’s competitive edge.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians

Few rivalries capture attention quite like the Royal Challengers Bengaluru against the Mumbai Indians. This contest is driven as much by star power and fan engagement as by on-field tactics. RCB brings flair, aggression, and marquee names, while MI counters that with consistency, planning, and execution.

RCB’s reliance on Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry brings brilliance and is capable of turning games in a matter of overs. Mumbai, on the other hand, thrives on collective effort, often absorbing pressure before striking back decisively. Matches between these sides are rarely predictable, swinging dramatically based on key moments. Often described as a clash of philosophies, this rivalry has produced some of the most entertaining league-stage encounters in the WPL.

UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians

While the Mumbai Indians have been the league’s benchmark, the UP Warriorz have frequently positioned themselves as challengers unafraid of the favourites. This rivalry is rooted in contrast. UPW relies on aggressive intent, particularly at the top, while MI depends on balance and control.

With explosive batters like Alyssa Healy and Grace Harris, the Warriorz often look to unsettle Mumbai early, forcing them out of their comfort zone. These contests have highlighted fascinating tactical battles, especially during the middle overs, where MI’s discipline is tested against UPW’s fearless approach. Even when MI emerges on top, UP Warriorz have repeatedly shown their ability to disrupt dominance and reshape the points table.

Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The rivalry between the Delhi Capitals and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru gained real momentum when leadership narratives took centre stage. Meg Lanning’s methodical, experience-driven style for DC contrasts sharply with Smriti Mandhana’s expressive and attacking leadership for RCB.

Both teams place heavy emphasis on strong top orders, often resulting in high-scoring, momentum-driven games. This rivalry came into sharp focus during a landmark final that pushed RCB’s fortunes and a loss for Delhi.

Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz

The Gujarat Giants versus UP Warriorz rivalry may not always dominate headlines, but it represents the depth and competitiveness of the WPL. Both teams have often entered seasons as underdogs, yet their encounters have delivered compelling cricket driven by standout individual efforts.

Players like Sophia Dunkley and Deepti Sharma have used these fixtures to stamp their authority, producing performances that shift momentum and confidence. The Giants’ unpredictability against UPW’s structured aggression has led to matches where form counts for little and adaptability matters most. This rivalry underlines a crucial aspect of the WPL: even mid-table teams are capable of producing classics that influence the wider tournament narrative.