Aakash Chopra Predicts Delhi Capitals to Win WPL 2026 – But Can They Dethrone RCB?

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Cricket fans, get ready for some bold takes. Veteran commentator and former India opener Aakash Chopra has dropped a major prediction ahead of the WPL 2026 season, and it’s one that’s bound to stir debate in the women’s cricket community. In a recent analysis, Chopra didn’t just offer his usual stats-driven insights—he went all-in on Delhi Capitals as the team to watch, while also backing Smriti Mandhana to dominate the batting charts .

With the Women’s Premier League (WPL) rapidly growing in stature, these kinds of predictions carry serious weight. Chopra’s track record for reading the game gives his forecast an extra layer of credibility—but is it spot-on, or just wishful thinking? Let’s unpack his key claims and what they mean for the upcoming season.

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Aakash Chopra’s Bold WPL 2026 Prediction

In a recent video analysis, Aakash Chopra stated, “I think Delhi Capitals have the best chance to win WPL 2026,” citing their balanced squad, powerful top order, and depth in bowling as key strengths . He went on to single out two of their biggest stars—Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma—as potential run machines who could carry the team deep into the playoffs.

This is a significant call, especially given that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by Mandhana herself, have been consistent performers but are yet to claim the title. Chopra’s prediction suggests a dramatic shift in the WPL power dynamics—one that fans and analysts will be watching closely.

Why Delhi Capitals Could Win WPL 2026

So, what makes Delhi Capitals such a strong candidate for the WPL 2026 crown? Let’s break it down:

  • Explosive Top Order: With Shafali Verma, Meg Lanning (if retained), and Jemimah Rodrigues, DC boasts one of the most destructive opening combinations in the league.
  • Bowling Versatility: The presence of Marizanne Kapp, Jess Jonassen, and Radha Yadav gives them options across formats and conditions.
  • Strategic Leadership: Their captaincy and coaching setup has shown adaptability—critical in a short-format tournament where momentum swings fast.

Moreover, Delhi Capitals finished as runners-up in WPL 2024 and showed marked improvement in 2025 . If they retain their core and smartly fill gaps in the upcoming auction, Chopra’s prediction might not be far-fetched.

Smriti Mandhana: The Frontrunner for Orange Cap?

Chopra didn’t stop at team predictions. He also tipped Smriti Mandhana—now captaining Royal Challengers Bengaluru—to win the Orange Cap in WPL 2026. “She’s in the form of her life,” he noted, pointing to her consistency across formats and her ability to anchor innings while maintaining a high strike rate .

Mandhana has been a model of reliability:

  • She was the second-highest run-scorer in WPL 2025.
  • Her average in T20Is over the past 12 months is above 38.
  • She thrives under pressure—evident in her match-winning knocks for India and RCB.

While she plays for RCB, not Delhi Capitals, Chopra’s dual prediction—DC to win the title, Mandhana to win Orange Cap—implies he sees her dominating even if her team falls short, or possibly a mid-season trade (though unlikely). Either way, her individual brilliance is undeniable.

Shafali Verma: A Dark Horse for Top Scorer

Chopra also highlighted Shafali Verma as a “strong contender” for the top run-scorer award. Known for her aggressive strokeplay and fearless approach, Shafali has matured significantly since her debut. In WPL 2025, she struck at over 140 and delivered multiple quickfire 40s that set the tone for DC’s innings .

If she can convert those starts into 70+ scores consistently in WPL 2026, she could easily challenge Mandhana for the Orange Cap—a tantalizing prospect for fans of explosive batting.

Can RCB Bounce Back in WPL 2026?

Despite backing Mandhana individually, Chopra’s team prediction sidelines Royal Challengers Bengaluru—the only franchise yet to win a WPL title despite strong squads year after year. The question remains: can RCB finally break their finals curse?

RCB’s weaknesses often lie in middle-order fragility and over-reliance on Mandhana. If they can bolster their batting depth and find a reliable finisher in the 2026 auction, they’ll remain serious contenders. But Chopra’s vote for Delhi Capitals suggests he sees DC as the more complete unit.

Expert Analysis: What Makes a WPL Champion?

Looking at past WPL winners—Mumbai Indians in 2023 and 2024—the common thread is balance. You need:

  1. A top-order that can post or chase 160+ consistently.
  2. Death bowlers who can defend 10–12 runs per over.
  3. Players who perform under pressure in knockout games.

For deeper insights into the evolution of the WPL, check out the official BCCI’s WPL launch announcement, which outlines the league’s vision and structure .

Conclusion: The Road to WPL 2026

Aakash Chopra’s prediction that Delhi Capitals will win WPL 2026, with Smriti Mandhana claiming the Orange Cap, is both exciting and plausible. It reflects the current trajectory of both teams and players. While RCB remains a sentimental favorite, DC’s tactical balance and explosive talent pool might just give them the edge.

One thing’s for sure: with Mandhana, Verma, and a host of global stars lining up, WPL 2026 promises to be the most competitive season yet. Keep your eyes on the auction—it could reshape everything.

Sources

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