The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 has been full of unexpected turns, but the elimination of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was one of the most shocking moments. Losing to UP Warriorz (UPW) by 12 runs in a high-scoring match, RCB’s dreams of retaining the title came crashing down. However, the viral moment from the match wasn’t just the loss but a heated exchange between Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry that divided fans.
The Viral Moment: Mandhana vs. Perry
The match wasn’t just about cricket; it also featured a controversial moment that went viral. During a strategic drinks break, RCB skipper Smriti Mandhana was addressing her teammates when Ellyse Perry interrupted with her own suggestions. Mandhana, seemingly displeased, abruptly left the discussion and walked to her fielding position.
During the break, Smriti Mandhana was giving lecture…. but as soon as Ellyse Perry started to share something, insecure Smriti Chokedhana ignored & left the circle🤡🤡#WPL2025 #RCBvsUPW
Video credit:- @BCCI & @JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/aof9QiJ77r— CricketxCinema (@CricketxCinema) March 8, 2025
Fans Divided Over the Moment
This moment ignited a debate among fans, with Mandhana supporters arguing that she was simply maintaining her leadership authority, while Perry supporters felt that Perry’s suggestions were valid and that Mandhana had overreacted. The incident quickly became one of the most talked-about of the season, with social media buzzing with reactions.
Yes Smriti is insecure of Perry. Lmao 🤣😂 https://t.co/ammHEuvhHu
— Kshitij Ojha (@Kshitij070) March 9, 2025
Match Overview
UPW’s batting performance was nothing short of explosive, as they posted a record total of 225/5 in 20 overs. Georgia Voll was the standout performer, smashing an unbeaten 99 off 56 balls, with 17 boundaries and a six. Other significant contributions came from Kiran Navgire, who scored 46 off just 16 balls, Grace Harris with 39 off 22 balls, and Chinelle Henry who added 19 off 15 balls. UPW’s top order thoroughly dominated RCB’s bowling attack, setting the stage for an electrifying run chase.
RCB’s Chase Falls Short
RCB faced a daunting target of 226 to win, and despite valiant efforts from Richa Ghosh, who scored a blistering 69 off 33 balls, and a late blitz from Sneh Rana with 26 off just 6 balls, they fell short, getting bowled out for 213 in 19.3 overs. Key contributions in RCB’s innings included Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed early for just 4 runs, Ellyse Perry with a quick 28 off 15 balls, and Sabbhineni Meghana, who added 27 off 12 balls. Despite their efforts, RCB could not overcome the challenge and became the first team to be eliminated from WPL 2025.
RCB’s Early Exit from WPL 2025
RCB faced multiple challenges in their campaign, beginning with inconsistent batting as Mandhana’s form remained a significant concern. Additionally, their bowling attack struggled to contain UPW’s aggressive batters, who dismantled their strategies with ease. Despite valiant efforts from Richa Ghosh and Sneh Rana, RCB lacked the finishing touch necessary to seal the chase, ultimately falling short in crucial moments.
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