Smriti Mandhana reveals leadership lessons ahead of WPL 2025 opener
What's the story
As her team gears up for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 opener, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana has opened up about what it means to be a leader.
Mandhana led RCB to their first WPL title, defeating Delhi Capitals by eight wickets in the 2024 WPL edition.
"Injuries have been a big impact in the last one-and-a-half months, but injuries are something which are not in our hands, " Mandhana said in a pre-match press conference.
Leadership journey
Mandhana's evolution as a cricketer and leader
Mandhana has said her journey as a cricketer and leader has been a learning one.
She said, "Captaincy is one thing which at any moment you can think that you know it all, cricket teaches you a lot of things that you think you knew but every day is a new experience."
"More than being captain there are a lot of changes as a person in the last 2-3 years," she added, showcasing her growth as a player and person.
Team preparation
Mandhana's outlook on RCB's readiness for WPL 2025
Despite the recent injuries, Mandhana is confident that her team is ready for the upcoming tournament.
She said, "Really looking forward, had a good camp in Bengaluru. The girls are looking all prepped up, a lot of young ones have come in and got a lot of energy, and the overseas players have also joined us, so looking forward to the third edition."
This statement highlights her belief in the potential of her squad to do well in this edition.
Rival recognition
Mandhana praises Gujarat Giants and their new captain
Mandhana has also acknowledged the strength of their first opponents in the tournament, Gujarat Giants.
She praised their new captain, Ashleigh Gardner of Australia, stating that "She (Gardner) has been one of the best all-rounders in women's game and also she is one of those batters who can clear the ropes quite easily."
This only shows Mandhana's respect for her competitors and her understanding of the challenges they present.
Numbers
These are Mandhana's stats in WPL and T20Is
Across 18 WPL matches, Mandhana has amassed 449 runs at an average of 24.94.
She also owns an impressive strike rate of 125.41. The skipper has also registered two fifties and boasts a high score of 80, (vs UP Warriorz).
Meanwhile, for India, she has smashed 3,761 runs at an average of 29.38, across 148 WT20Is.
She also has a strike rate of 123.27, alongside 30 fifties. Her highest T20I score is 87, vs Ireland.