Delhi Capitals Clinch WPL 2026 Eliminator Spot, MI Knocked Out
Captain Jemimah Rodrigues stars as DC chase down 123, extending their unbeaten playoff streak
BARODA, Feb 2: Delhi Capitals held their nerve in a tense chase to defeat UP Warriorz by five wickets, securing a spot in the WPL 2026 Eliminator on Sunday. The win extended DC’s record of reaching the playoffs in every season while confirming defending champions Mumbai Indians’ exit from the tournament.
Chasing a modest 123, Capitals looked in control early before a late wobble saw them slump from 84 for one to 101 for five. Captain Jemimah Rodrigues, unbeaten on 34 off 18 balls, and youngster Niki Prasad steadied the innings, guiding Delhi to 126 for five with eight balls to spare.
The foundation for the chase was laid by Laura Wolvaardt and Shafali Verma, who put together a 73-run partnership after an early loss of Lizelle Lee. Wolvaardt scored a patient 47 off 36 deliveries, while Shafali contributed 29 runs. Despite regular breakthroughs from Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma, UP Warriorz couldn’t capitalize on Delhi’s wobble.
Earlier, Delhi bowlers set the tone by restricting UP Warriorz to 122 for eight. Marizanne Kapp led the effort with 3 for 30, supported by Chinelle Henry’s two wickets. Deepti Sharma top-scored for UP with 24, while Simran Shaikh added 22, but the team struggled to build meaningful partnerships.
Delhi Capitals now face an in-form Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium on Tuesday, with a place in the WPL 2026 final at stake.
