WPL 2023: Smriti Mandhana's struggle continues

The action continued in the inaugural edition of the Women's Premier League on Wednesday, March 15 as Royal Challengers Bangalore were up against UP Warriorz in match 13 of the tournament at Dr. Dy patil sports academy, Navi Mumbai. RCB did win their first match of the campaign but skipper Smriti Mandhana hasn't lived up to her worth. Kanika Ahuja's brilliant inning helped RCB to win the match of WPL 2023.

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Mandhana couldn't vindicate her decision as she was once again dismissed too soon. The RCB skipper departed for a duck in the match against UP Warriorz. She hasn't been able to give a good start to her team except in the first match where she showed positive intent, although she made 35 runs. In six matches, she was dismissed by right-handed off spinners Alice Capsey, Hayley Matthews, and Ashleigh Gardner respectively, whereas, in the fourth game, left-arm orthodox bowler Rajeshwari Gayakwad claimed her wicket. In the 5th match, national teammate Shikha Pandey dismissed Smriti. Deepti Sharma removed her from the crease for a golden duck in the last match.

After six innings in WPL 2023, the RCB captain only has 88 runs to her name and has failed miserably in justifying her reputation and the price tag. If RCB want to finish somewhere fine at the table, Smriti has to step up. As a Captain & as a batter, it is very important for Smriti Mandhana to lead the Bangalore women's side to victories in the remaining 2 matches.