Harmanpreet Kaur’s MI face off against Smriti Mandhana’s RCB:Blockbuster opening fixture of WPL 2026 season; Mumbai ahead 3-2 in head to head

After a one-year break, the Women’s Premier League (WPL 2026) is set to return with renewed excitement and fresh hope, showcasing emerging talent from across India. The tournament will kick off with a high-voltage clash between two-time champions Mumbai Indians and 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The opening match promises a thrilling start to the season, with both teams eager to make an early statement. Mumbai Indians enter the new season as defending champions after edging past Delhi Capitals by eight runs in the previous final at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur led from the front in that title clash, playing a captain’s knock of 66 off 46 balls. However, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru finished at fourth spot in the league stage. In this season, G Kamalini will be a player to watch out for, from the Mumbai Indians. For RCB, Lindsey Smith and Georgia Voll will have to step up in the absence of Ellyse Perry and Sophie Devine. Bengaluru’s Shreyanka Patil and Sayali Satghare are worth watching, as these young talents are expected to perform well this season in WPL 2026. MI vs RCB, match details Date Time: 09 January, 07:30 PM Venue: DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai Live Streaming: Jio Hotstar Live Telecast: Star Sports Network Latest news updates: Bhaskar English (App/Website) MI vs RCB, head-to-head records in WPL Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have faced each other seven times so far. Mumbai Indians hold a slight edge with four wins, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru have won three matches. There have been no matches without a result between the two teams. Jacqueline Fernandez set to light up in WPL 2026 opening ceremony The opening match of WPL 2026 is set to begin on a glamorous note, with the opening ceremony already creating buzz. Popular actress Jacqueline Fernandez has been announced as the star performer, promising a lively and entertaining start to the tournament. Her presence is expected to add extra excitement and charm to the highly anticipated season opener. DY Patil Stadium, pitch report The DY Patil pitch is likely to favour batters, with the red-soil surface offering good pace and bounce early on to assist fast bowlers. As the game progresses, spinners may come into play. Chasing could be the preferred option, especially with dew expected to influence the second innings. Navi Mumbai, weather report Friday evening is expected to be pleasant and clear, with the temperature around 22°C. There is only a 10% chance of precipitation, indicating minimal chances of rain. Humidity will remain low at 34%, making conditions comfortable. Winds are likely to blow at around 11 km/h at the Navi Mumbai for the WPL 2026 opener.