Royal Challengers Bengaluru Triumphs in Women's Premier League
Royal Challengers Bengaluru has etched another significant milestone in their storied history by capturing their second Women's Premier League title. Under the inspirational leadership of captain Smriti Mandhana, the team demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the tournament, culminating in a memorable victory that has electrified their fanbase.
Smriti Mandhana's Heartfelt Dedication to Fans
In the aftermath of the win, Smriti Mandhana was quick to attribute the success to the unwavering support of RCB fans. "RCB fans are truly the best in the world," she declared. "Wherever we compete, we feel their presence and encouragement. They maintain their belief in us, and everything we achieve on the field is dedicated to them. This championship belongs as much to them as it does to our team."
Mandhana emphasized that success does not lead to complacency. "Cricket is a sport where you always begin from zero," she explained. "It's about excelling in the present moment and persistently doing the right things. Even after victories, our hunger and motivation remain undiminished." She shared these insights in a conversation held just before the finals, highlighting the team's focus on collective performance and unity.
Building a Cohesive Team Environment
When asked about the strong sense of togetherness within the Indian team, Mandhana pointed to the extensive time spent together. "We tour for nearly ten months each year," she noted. "This means we see our teammates more than our own families, naturally forming a second family. There are inevitable ups and downs, but we consistently support each other. If someone has an off day, everyone ensures they are okay. This support system is crucial, especially for younger players, creating a safe space for expression and performance."
As a senior player, Mandhana adopts a steady approach to guiding younger teammates. "Maintaining normality is key," she said. "We conduct practice sessions and meetings with the same demeanor after losses as after wins. When younger players observe that the mood doesn't swing drastically, it builds their confidence. They learn that a single match doesn't define them, and this consistency helps everyone stay grounded."
The Power of RCB's Fan Culture
Reflecting on RCB's supportive fanbase, Mandhana expressed admiration. "The fan culture has been cultivated over 18 years," she remarked. "It's incredible; they're rightly called the 12th Man Army. Having played cricket globally, I still encounter people who want to discuss RCB. After our second season, random fans thanked me, which was unexpected and truly highlighted the magnitude of this support system. They are a tremendous strength, and we always feel our on-field efforts are for them."
On team bonding, the captain explained, "Assembling a team in just a month is challenging, but having Indian players who already know each other facilitated integration. This year, overseas players have blended seamlessly with the Indian squad. It no longer feels like we're from different countries; we're one cohesive group. Every practice and meeting has been enjoyable, without a single dull moment. When you relish each other's company, it positively impacts your gameplay."
Reflections on the World Cup and Future Aspirations
Discussing the historic World Cup win, Mandhana shared that her personal mindset remains unchanged. "The hunger and motivation are still as strong," she affirmed. "However, the scale of the victory became apparent when we witnessed the nationwide celebrations. This surge in attention for women's cricket in India brings both appreciation and criticism, and we must be prepared for both. I am incredibly excited about the prospects for the coming years."
Looking back at the World Cup journey, Mandhana identified key learnings. "We dedicated immense effort in the six months leading up to the tournament," she recalled. "Midway through, we faced losses and doubts emerged. Yet, we persisted with the right actions and trusted our process without panic. I firmly believe that honesty in preparation and hard work eventually yield magical results. Post-World Cup, my belief in that magic has only deepened."
When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Mandhana responded thoughtfully. "Perhaps my younger self should advise me now," she mused. "In youth, you enjoy the game more freely. As pressures mount with age, the reminder is to continue savoring the sport as you did at the start."
