Indian dashing opener Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as the captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore side for the inaugural edition of the Women’s Premier League starting from 4 to 26 March. The announcement was made through RCB’s social media handle by former captain Virat Kohli and current captain Faf du Plessis of the men’s section.
Smriti Mandhana was the first player to be selected by Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise in the auction that took place on 13 February 2023 in Mumbai. There was fight between RCB and Mumbai Indians for her before RCB purchased her for Rs 3.4 Crore. It was the highest bid for any player in the auction.
“Now it’s time for another No. 18 to lead a very special RCB team in WPL. Yes, we are talking about Smriti Mandhana. Go on Smriti. You have the support best team and the best fans in the world,” Kohli said.
From one No. 18 to another, from one skipper to another, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis announce RCB’s captain for the Women’s Premier League – Smriti Mandhana. #PlayBold #WPL2023 #CaptainSmriti @mandhana_smriti pic.twitter.com/sqmKnJePPu
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 18, 2023
“It is an incredible privilege to captain RCB, what an incredible franchise and so much history and great players just walking through that dressing room. I am very confident that our women’s captain has all the attributes to lead RCB. All the very best, Smriti Mandhana. See you at the games,” du Plessis said.
Royal Challengers Bangalore has a solid unit with the likes of Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, Sophie Devine, Heather Knight, and Dan Van Niekerk. Renuka Singh will be one of the key bowlers for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
The matches will be played at CCI, Brabourne Stadium, and DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. She was the captain of the Trailblazers side in the Women’s T20 challenge across all four seasons before leading to the title in 2020.
Royal Challengers Bangalore will begin their tournament on 5 March against Delhi Capitals. The men’s RCB side never won the prestigious IPL since its inception in 2008. They have reached the finals thrice and finished runners-up.
Smriti Mandhana exploits in T20I format
Smriti Mandhana is currently featuring in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup taking place in South Africa. She did not feature in the opening match against Pakistan due to an injury. Mandhana failed to contribute many runs against West Indies. The Indian fans would be hoping that she produces magical innings against England in the third Group match on 18 February.
Mandhana has been the backbone of the Indian T20 batting line. She played so far 113 matches with 2661 runs including 20 half-centuries to her name.
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