TATA WPL 2026: Meet the Skippers Powering Five Franchises

By: WE Staff

Jemimah Rodrigues: Delhi Capitals

Jemimah Rodrigues steps into a defining role as she captains Delhi Capitals in TATA WPL 2026, tasked with turning consistency into a long-awaited title. A core figure since the league’s inception, she has been central to DC’s journey to three consecutive finals, contributing 507 runs across previous editions with her trademark flair and finishing ability. Taking over from Meg Lanning, Jemimah brings a fresh leadership style that blends preparation, data-driven planning, and sharp on-field instinct. Drawing confidence from India’s recent World Cup success, she leads with belief and clarity, focusing on strong team bonds and communication. For DC in 2026, Jemimah’s vision is simple yet bold: lead from the front, embrace pressure, and finally convert potential into championship glory.

Smriti Mandhana: Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Smriti Mandhana enters TATA WPL 2026 as the face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s leadership, carrying forward lessons from a transformative captaincy journey. After a difficult debut season in 2023, Smriti evolved into a composed leader, guiding RCB to their maiden WPL title in 2024. A challenging 2025 campaign tested the squad with injuries and inconsistency, but it further sharpened her tactical clarity. Now in prime international form, she leads with renewed confidence and purpose. RCB’s 2026 strategy reflects her vision of building a balanced, athletic unit with stronger Indian bowling resources and versatile all-rounders. Backing continuity, cohesion, and smart squad depth over star dependence, Smriti aims to steer RCB back into title contention with resilience, adaptability, and fearless intent.