‘That’s how RCB fan base is’ - Smriti Mandhana overwhelmed by crowd's support at Chinnaswamy

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Smriti Mandhana experienced an electrifying moment during their Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 season opener against UP Warriorz at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The stadium erupted with fervour as the home crowd rallied behind their team during the toss and then for the entire match.

This, however, isn't an uncommon phenomenon in Bengaluru. Even during the match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, the crowd chanted ‘RCB, RCB’ in the stands, but it wasn’t the same on Day 2, as Smriti had trouble hearing as the fans proved to be extremely loud.

In a last-ball thriller against Warriorz, Mandhana & Co secured a nail-biting two-run victory. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and the fans’ enthusiasm was palpable even before the first ball was bowled. For the first time ever, RCB’s women’s team played in front of their home crowd, and the response was overwhelming, just like the one received by their IPL franchise.

“We already knew that. There’s going to be a lot of noise and support. That’s how RCB fan base is,” Mandhana said during the toss.

When it comes to the match, UP Warriorz asked the hosts to bat first. RCB’s innings began with a stutter, losing openers Sophie Devine and Mandhana early. But the partnership between Sabbhineni Meghana and Richa Ghosh steadied the ship. Meghana’s half-century (53 off 44 balls) and Ghosh’s explosive innings (62 off 37 balls) set the tone as RCB posted 157/6 on the board to defend.

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During the chase, the Alyssa Healy-led side had a poor start as they were reduced to 49/3 at one stage. Despite so, the visitors were much in the game till the last ball. Grace Harris (38 runs of 23 deliveries) and youngster Shweta Sehrawat (31 runs off 25 deliveries) built a crucial partnership in the middle, which kept the Lucknow-based franchise in the contest. However, neither of the cricketers could help their team cross the line.

The pressure fell on Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone in the end, but they didn’t look comfortable in the middle, as Sophie Molineux bowled a brilliant final over. Meanwhile, Sobhana Asha was adjudged Player of the Match for her brilliant five-for.