Smriti Mandhana confirmed as RCB’s captain

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have announced that Smriti Mandhana, the costliest pick of the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) Auction will lead the side for the upcoming season. The franchise made the announcement on Twitter earlier in the day, with former RCB skipper Virat Kohli announcing the decision. 

“Now it’s time for another Number 18 to lead a very special RCB team in the Women’s Premier League. Yes, we are talking about Smriti Mandhana. Go well Smriti, you will have the support of the best team and the best fans in the World,” Virat Kohli said in the announcement video.

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

RCB’s current skipper Faf du Plessis too added that he is ‘confident’ Smriti has all the attributes to succeed as an RCB captain. 

“I’m 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,” said Faf du Plessis. 

It didn’t end there, with RCB’s new skipper Smriti thanking the fans for the support, added that she will give 100% to the franchise ahead of the inaugural edition. 

“I would like to thank RCB management for giving me this amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to receiving all the love and support from you fans, who I’m told are the best in the world. And I promise you to give my 100% to lead RCB to success in WPL,” said the left-handed opener.