The Women’s Premier League 2024 played a key role for many players including the Indian domestic player Asha Sobhana. While playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru she managed to grab eye balls and later on earned maiden call ups for the India Team for the upcoming Bangladesh series as well.

Asha Sobhana played a key role for RCB in WPL 2024

Asha was the second-highest wicket-taker in WPL 2024, claiming 12 wickets in 10 matches, at an economy of 7.11, with her best bowling figures being 5/22. However, she earned her call up at the age of 33 and she can be seen doing wonders in the upcoming series which is scheduled to commence on Sunday, April 28.

In an intervew with The Times of India, she said that she was very happy when she got to know about the her selection for the tour to Bangladesh.

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“I was very happy when I heard the news. After my good show in the WPL, I expected to be in the Indian camp. But getting the India call-up was a pleasant surprise. It felt good,” she said.

“At 33, my career is just starting. Age is just a number. Experience really matters when you go into bigger tournaments. All credit to the selectors, captain and vice-captain for having faith in me. It motivates me to
work harder. I have been working very hard for the last few years, especially after getting into the WPL,” she further added.

I want to give my best and make it count: Asha Sobhana

With the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup all set to take place in Bangladesh in the months of September and October, the five T20Is will play a great role for the Indians becoming used to with the conditions for the mega event as well.

“For the Indian team, it is a great preparation for the World Cup. We have a very experienced side. The conditions in Bangladesh will help our spinners. I want to give my best and make it count,” concluded Asha Sobhana.

The Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore became part of memorable moments, heartwarming gestures, and emotional anecdotes on March 19. RCB Unbox event saw Virat Kohli and the whole RCB men’s team lined up to welcome Smriti Mandhana led women’s team on the field.

Guard of honour for Smriti Mandhana led RCB Women

Smriti Mandhana and her RCB women’s team finally brought the maiden trophy for the franchise when they won WPL 2024 by beating Delhi Capitals on Sunday. While fans erupted in joy, players could not stop congratulating the women for the achievement. Virat Kohli, the veteran core member of the side was seen video calling the women’s team after the massive win and congratulating the captain. No wonder, the winning team was invited to the RCB Unbox event. While their presence received lots of warmth from the fans, RCB men’s gesture for their women’s side broke the internet.

Virat Kohli and his team lined up to form a guard of honour and welcomed the women’s team on the field. Smriti Mandhana walked in with the trophy in hand and the rest of the team followed. They were welcomed amidst a huge cheer and applause from the home audience at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

See also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Delhi Capitals

RCB Women take victory lap at RCB Unbox

Smriti Mandhana led Royal Challengers Bangalore beat Delhi Capitals by eight wickets to win the Women’s Premier League 2024. Despite being dismissed for a mere 113 runs, the Delhi Capitals bowlers fought back and managed to take the match to the final over making the climax a nail-biting one. Eventually, Bangalore won it with just three balls remaining and Smriti Mandhana’s side became part of history.

Despite the overseas players are already back home to resume their national duties, the spirit remained intact. Ellyse Perry joined the celebration through video call. The team took the victory lap while the stadium was painted with red flags.

Virat Kohli, the veteran member of the Royal Challengers Bangalore team said that he would never leave the franchise. Kohli also hoped to replicate the success of their women’s team that recently won the WPL 2024.

Emotional Kohli at RCB Unbox

In the 16-year journey, the RCB men’s team failed to win the IPL trophy for once since its inception in 2008. Virat Kohli has been a core member of the side from the beginning and captained the side as well for a long time. However, even legends like Kohli, Ab de Villiers, Chris Gayle could not bring the trophy for Bangalore. Despite the drought, the fans never left the team. While attending the RCB Unbox event on March 19, Tuesday, Kohli praised the loyalty of the fans and said, “Hopefully we can double it up with the trophies, that will be something truly special.”

The 35-year-old batter became emotional while speaking of the only IPL franchise that he has been part of for the last 16 years. He said that he would not want to leave the franchise ever and also would want to win the maiden IPL trophy for the team.

“As everyone knows, I’m always gonna be here, try to be part of the group that wins it (IPL) for the first time…I will try my absolute best for the fans, for the franchise…its kind of a dream of mine as well over so many years, to know what it feels like to win the IPL,” Kohli said in the RCB Unbox event.

See also: Is Virat Kohli a Liability In T20 Cricket

Virat Kohli, the run machine of IPL

Virat Kohli has scored many runs in his IPL career and is one of the highest run scorers in the league across all the seasons. However, his batting also failed to bring a single trophy to the RCB dressing room over these years.

In IPL 2023, Kohli added 639 runs to his name from 14 matches but RCB finished in the sixth place. This year after their women’s team’s maiden win, the men’s team would be more motivated to bring the IPL to Bangalore as well.  Royal Challengers Bangalore will start their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 22 in Chepauk.

In the Women’s Premier League 2024, Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry emerged as the top run-scorer, earning her the prestigious Orange Cap. Perry’s composed innings of 35 not out in the final match against Delhi Capitals propelled her total tally to 347 runs from 9 matches. Throughout the tournament, she showcased her versatility, making vital contributions with both bat and ball for the Royal Challengers Bangalore team.

Perry faced stiff competition from Delhi Capitals’ captain Meg Lanning, who amassed 331 runs in the tournament. However, Perry’s consistent performances and crucial contributions in the final stages of the competition secured her the coveted Orange Cap. In the finals against Delhi Capitals, Ellyse Perry exhibited a composed innings, steering her team towards the target of 114 runs.

Perry played a risk-free knock, scoring an unbeaten 35 runs off 37 balls, punctuated with four boundaries. Partnering with her was Smriti Mandhana, who contributed 31 runs off 39 balls, providing valuable support in the chase. Additionally, Sophie Devine played a crucial role, scoring 32 runs off 27 balls while opening the batting alongside Mandhana. Their collective efforts propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore to victory in the final match of the tournament.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Lucknow Super Giants

Ellyse Perry’s Inspiring Journey to Capture the Orange Cap

Ellyse Perry emerged as the true match-winner for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, showcasing her all-round prowess throughout the tournament. She consistently delivered crucial performances with both bat and ball, often proving to be the difference-maker in pressure situations.

In their third game against Mumbai Indians, Perry played a vital role, contributing 44 runs to RCB’s total score of 131 runs. Her contribution accounted for 34.92% of the team’s total, highlighting her significance in the match. Similarly, in the following game against UP Warriorz, Perry’s explosive innings of 58 runs off 37 balls played a pivotal role in RCB’s total score of 198 runs. Her contribution in this match amounted to 30.69% of the team’s total, further underlining her importance to the team’s success.

During the pivotal stages of the tournament, Ellyse Perry showcased her exceptional form, delivering match-winning performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. In their last league match against Mumbai Indians, RCB successfully chased down 115 runs, with Perry contributing 40 runs, which accounted for 40% of the team’s total.

In the crucial semi-final clash against Mumbai Indians, RCB set a target of 135 runs while batting first. Perry played a stellar innings, scoring 66 runs, which constituted an impressive 50% of the team’s total score. In the final showdown against Delhi Capitals, Perry once again played a vital role, guiding RCB to victory in the chase of 115 runs. Her composed innings of 35 runs contributed 30.43% of the team’s total score, underscoring her importance as a dependable anchor in pressure situations.

Ellyse Perry’s outstanding performances throughout the Women’s Premier League 2024 showcased her exceptional skills as an all-rounder for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. With both bat and ball, Perry consistently delivered match-winning contributions, demonstrating her ability to thrive under pressure.

Her pivotal knocks in crucial encounters, including the semi-final and final, played a significant role in RCB’s success in the tournament. Perry’s calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings were instrumental in guiding her team to victory in high-pressure situations. Overall, Perry’s invaluable contributions solidified her position as a key player and a match-winner for RCB in their quest for glory.

In an exhilarating display of skill and teamwork, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Women’s Cricket Team secured a historic victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Led by captain Smriti Mandhana, the team showcased exceptional performance on the field, culminating in a well-deserved triumph.

Excitement filled the air as the victorious RCB Women’s Team arrived at the RCBUnbox event to celebrate their remarkable triumph in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024. The team, hailed as champions after a stellar performance in the tournament, is expected to be felicitated for their outstanding achievement.

Watch the video…

In the recently concluded WPL 2024, the RCB Women’s Team showcased exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork, ultimately emerging as the champions of the league. Their journey to victory was marked by thrilling matches, where they displayed a remarkable blend of talent and resilience, capturing the hearts of cricket fans across the nation.

As the players step onto the stage at the RCBUnbox event, anticipation mounts for the felicitation ceremony, where they will be honored for their hard work, dedication, and unparalleled success in clinching the championship title. Supporters eagerly await the chance to congratulate their favorite players in person and express gratitude for bringing glory to the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise.

RCB Women’s team celebrates victory

Amidst cheers and applause, the RCB Women’s Team embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence, serving as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and sports enthusiasts alike. Their victory not only celebrates their achievements on the field but also highlights the power of teamwork, determination, and passion in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness.

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As the celebrations unfold at the RCBUnbox event, the RCB Women’s Team stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in one’s abilities. Their journey from underdogs to champions is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of sports in uniting communities and inspiring future generations.

Swashbuckling India opener as well as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana did not stop saying that she does not like being compared to legendary Virat Kohli. On Sunday, March 17, Mandhana helped the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) win their Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 title as well.

However, RCB defeated Meg Lanning’s Delhi Capitals (DC) by 8 wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. After RCB’s win, fans started talking about whether Virat Kohli could win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 trophy. Meanwhile, Mandhana called Kohli an ‘inspiration’ and applauded him for scaling greater heights in his career over the last 16 years as well.

Smriti Mandhana led RCB to their maiden WPL title win

“Title is one thing, but the other No.18 has achieved a lot for India and that is a big thing. So, I don’t think the comparison is right in terms of where my career is and what he has already achieved,” Smriti Mandhana told the reporters.

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“I don’t like being compared because what he has achieved has been great; he has been an inspirational person. The title doesn’t define a lot of things. We all respect him and I feel like the respect in Indian cricket has to be right up there for Virat,” she again said.

‘Jersey number is just a personal choice’ – Smriti Mandhana

However, both Virat Kohli and Smriti Mandhana wear Jersey No.18. Earlier on RCB Bold Diaries, Mandhana shared why she dons No.18 on her back. She said that jersey numbers don’t define the style of cricket she and Kohli play as well.

“So, there’s nothing different for me. I would not really term it as 18 and 18. Jersey number is just a personal choice, and it doesn’t define how he plays his cricket and how I play mine,” she concluded.

On the other hand, Virat Kohli has reached India from London on Sunday. He is now set to play when RCB take son MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 22 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

With the completion of two successful seasons of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), cricket enthusiasts worldwide celebrate the remarkable progress of women’s cricket. The thrilling matches, electrifying sixes, and unwavering enthusiasm displayed by both players and fans alike signify a significant milestone in the journey of women’s cricket.

Growth of Women’s Cricket

The recent surge in popularity of women’s cricket reflects a global shift in attitudes towards the sport. The unprecedented support and fervor witnessed during WPL matches underscore the growing recognition and acceptance of women’s cricket, not only in India but across the world.

See Also: IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings best playing XI and impact player strategies

Controversial Statements by N. Srinivasan

Amidst the triumphs of women’s cricket, controversial remarks by former BCCI president Mr. N. Srinivasan cast a shadow over the progress. His statement, expressing opposition to women’s cricket and dismissing its relevance, sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters.

N Srinivasan stated, “If I had my way, I wouldn’t let women’s cricket happen. Women have no business playing cricket. We are only doing this because it is an ICC rule.”

Challenges in BCCI

Diana Edulji, a former Indian women cricketer, echoed sentiments of discontent within the BCCI, labeling it a “male chauvinist organization.” Her remarks shed light on the entrenched resistance and reluctance within the BCCI towards embracing women’s cricket as a legitimate and integral part of the sport.

“I’ve always been a BCCI basher, right from the day women’s cricket came into the BCCI fold in 2006. BCCI is a very male chauvinist organisation. They never wanted women to dictate terms or get into this thing. I was very vocal right from my playing days, from when I started,” she said. “Even now, I would still say that it is not yet well accepted within BCCI that women’s cricket is doing well. It is very difficult for them (some BCCI members) to accept the fact that this team has done very well,” the report quoted Edulji to Indian Express.

Positive changes in BCCI

Despite the challenges, there have been significant strides towards gender equality and inclusivity within the BCCI. The decision to pay both male and female cricketers equal match fees represents a crucial step towards recognizing and valuing the contributions of women athletes.

Impact of Government Support

The support extended by the Indian government has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of women’s cricket. Successful initiatives such as the Women’s Premier League and the hosting of domestic women’s cricket matches underscore the commitment towards empowering women athletes and providing them with equitable opportunities.

What a remarkable turnaround it has been for Bangalore in the 2024 Women’s T20 League! After facing disappointment as favorites in the inaugural edition, they showcased sheer resilience and determination to clinch the title this year. Their exceptional performance in the final few games truly showcased their mettle and justified their status as champions.

However, amidst the celebration for Bangalore, it’s important to acknowledge the commendable effort put forth by Delhi throughout the campaign. Despite their consistent brilliance, they couldn’t withstand the pressure in the crucial encounter, ending their campaign as runners-up.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Delhi Capitals

Breaking Down Delhi Capitals Women’s Finals Loss

In the Women’s T20 League final, Smriti Mandhana’s side faced the challenge of bowling first after losing the toss. Initially, they struggled to make breakthroughs, with Renuka Singh failing to make an impact yet again. However, the momentum shifted when Sophie Molineux entered the attack and swiftly dismissed Shafali Verma. Molineux’s exceptional spell continued as she claimed two more wickets in the same over, putting Bangalore in a commanding position.

With the opposition reeling, Bangalore’s spinners capitalized on the pressure, with Shreyanka Patil leading the charge with a four-wicket haul. Their disciplined bowling effort restricted the opponents to a modest total, setting up a manageable chase for Bangalore.

Needing 114 runs to clinch the trophy, Bangalore’s opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Sophie Devine adopted a cautious approach initially. However, Devine soon found her rhythm and began to score boundaries regularly, easing the pressure off her team. Despite Devine’s dismissal, Ellyse Perry stepped up to the occasion, playing a crucial innings to keep the momentum going.

Mandhana, who had been leading from the front throughout the tournament, contributed with a valuable knock before getting out. Perry, unfazed by the loss of her partner, anchored the innings brilliantly, forming a vital partnership with the dynamic Richa Ghosh. Together, they guided Bangalore to a comfortable victory, securing the ultimate prize for their team.

The triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for Bangalore, who had faced setbacks earlier in the tournament but showed resilience and determination to emerge victorious in the final stages. Mandhana’s leadership, coupled with the stellar performances of players like Molineux, Perry, and Ghosh, played a pivotal role in their success.

Despite the initial challenges, Bangalore remained focused on their goal and executed their plans effectively to clinch the title. The victory would serve as a testament to their character and ability to rise to the occasion under pressure, solidifying their status as worthy champions of the Women’s T20 League.

After losing the Women’s Premier League 2024 final, Delhi Capitals head coach Jonathan Batty backed the aggressive brand of batting displayed by his side all season, despite 113 all out in the final which cost them the title.

“We back our batters to play really aggressive, positive cricket as we have done all tournament. The margins are so small,” Batty said. “Those batters who got out in the middle phase in the innings, they get a bat on one of those and it goes for four runs, we get 150 or 180 and it’s a completely different game. They have been fantastic all tournament, I think we have been one of the standout teams to finish at the top of the table, and our batters have been absolutely amazing.”

However, Delhi Capitals were 64/0 before a three-wicket over from Sophie Molineux turned the table for RCB.

“We didn’t do ourselves justice with the bat” – Jonathan Batty

“We didn’t do ourselves justice with the bat [in the final]. Left ourselves a few runs short of where we probably should have been after that fantastic start. As a fielding unit, full credit to the players, they were amazing. I don’t think we should have done anything differently,” Batty said.

However, Jonathan Batty also lauded the “outstanding” captaincy of Meg Lanning, which saw that the RCB get a tough time and the chase went to the final over as well. RCB won with only three balls to spare.

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“I guess she felt that the seamers were keeping the batters under control. Trying to take the game as deep as possible with only a small total on the board. If anything it worked,” Batty again explained. “I thought it was fantastic captaincy; a lot of people would not have done that, would not have been brave enough to do that. So full credit to Meg for doing that and nearly getting us home in the end.”

“She puts her heart and soul into this competition at Delhi Capitals. She’s been fantastic. I guess she is disappointed as we all are, we felt we didn’t do ourselves justice today. We have been brilliant all tournament, full credit to RCB for winning tonight,” he further added.

“Our Indian domestic players stepped up the plate” – Jonathan Batty

However, India’s domestic players in the Delhi Capitals squad levelled up to the challenge all season as well – be it Titas Sadhu or Minnu Mani.

“Our Indian domestic players stepped up the plate. They’ve all improved. I have talked before of how hard they have worked over the last 12 months. Once the last season ended, we ran various camps, and we gave them some guidance and advice. But they have been away and worked very, very hard for the last 12 months. You could see it… people like Arundhati, Radha stepping up to the plate as well, Titas played a couple of games and was outstanding as well. She is going to be a bright prospect in the future, she’s gonna be amazing,” he again said.

“You look across the tournament, the Indian domestic players are improving all the time. The quality of the cricket in this tournament has been fantastic and a significant uplift on last year, which was already fantastic,” he concluded.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally broke the jinx. It lifted its maiden trophy in the 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) by convincingly defeating Delhi Capitals by eight wickets in the final held in New Delhi. Smriti Mandhana-led side showcased exceptional performance, marking a historic moment for their franchise.

Strong start from Shafali Verma

Shafali Verma’s aggressive onslaught on the RCB bowlers, coupled with Meg Lanning’s steady support from the other end, propelled Delhi Capitals to a solid start in the Women’s Premier League summit clash. Shafali’s aggressive batting prowess enabled Delhi Capitals to amass 61 runs in the first six overs, setting a formidable target for RCB.

See Also: Kohli’s call for RCB Women after the team wins maiden trophy

Comparison with Rohit Sharma’s ODI World Cup Final Knock

Shafali’s aggressive batting approach in the WPL final drew parallels with the memorable innings played by Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in the ODI World Cup 2023 final against Australia. Like Sharma’s impactful knock, Shafali’s single-handley lifted her team’s score in the powerplay like a lone warrior.

After this, people found similarities between Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s knock in the ODI World Cup final against Australia and Shafali’s knock in the WPL final against RCB. Both provided blistering starts to their team, but after that, their team collapsed like a deck of cards, irrespective of being the best team throughout the tournament.

Sophie Molineux’s Impactful Bowling Spell

Sophie Molineux turned the tide in RCB’s favor by claiming three crucial wickets in a single over. The dismissals of Shafali Verma, Jemimah, and Capsey put Delhi Capitals on the backfoot, and despite their efforts, they faltered and were eventually bowled out for 113 runs.

Collapse of Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals’ batting line-up crumbled under pressure after losing key wickets, failing to stabilize their innings and post a competitive total. The impressive display of bowling by RCB’s bowlers, led by Molineux, dismantled Delhi’s batting order and restricted them to a modest score.