WPL 2023: Smriti Mandhana named Royal Challengers Bangalore's captain

The Royal Challengers Bangalore, who had a tremendous outing at the first-ever Women's Premier League auction that took place on February 13, Monday, have named the Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana as their skipper for the inaugural edition of the tournament. 

RCB acquired the services of Mandhana by paying a huge sum of INR 3.4 crore, making her the most expensive player of the tournament. Mandhana will now be seen leading the side in the very first edition of the Women's Premier League which is set to begin from March 4, 2023. 

The RCB franchise made the announcement on their social media handles where former men's team skipper Virat Kohli and current skipper Faf du Plessis shared the news with the fans and introduced Mandhana to the captain's club.

Here's what Virat had to say:

"Hi RCB fans, this is your number 18, here to make a very special announcement today. Leading RCB for over a decade has been very enjoyable and a memorable phase of my career. A captain isn't just the leader of the group, he someone who creates the culture and carries that legacy forward by earning the respect of everyone around him.

Faf did a tremendous job last year by leading the side and helping each and every individual around him to grow and excel under his leadership. I really enjoyed my time playing under him. 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."

Here's what Faf said:

"Hey RCB fans, it's your captain speaking. It has been a great couple of months for RCB. Firstly, getting a women's IPL team then also assembling a really strong squad at the auction. And now it is time to reveal the first women's captain of RCB for this year's Women's Premier League. I also realised what an incredible privilege it is to captain RCB.

What an incredible franchise and so much history, and great players who walked through those dressing rooms. Not only do you Captain the 11 on the field but you are also the torch bearer for so many more fans out there. Inside Bangalore and over the whole of India. 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."

I promise to give my 100% to lead RCB to success in WPL: Mandhana

RCB also shared Mandhana's reaction to the messages from the two batting greats. She revealed that she is excited to lead the franchise and will be aiming to lead RCB to success in the inaugural edition.

Here's what Smriti said:

"Hi this is Smriti Mandhana, captain of RCB for Women's Premier League. It is such a great feeling to see Virat and Faf speak so much about leading RCB and I would like to thank RCB management for giving me this amazing opportunity. I am looking forward to receiving all the love and support from you fans, who I am told her the best in the world and I promise you to give my 100% to lead RCB to success in WPL."

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

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