Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) Women’s Premier League (WPL) season went from bad to worse as the Smriti Mandhana-led side suffered its fourth consecutive defeat. Defending a target of 139 against UP Warriorz, RCB failed to scalp even one wicket and suffered a 10-wicket defeat. RCB captain Mandhana was visibly disappointed after the defeat and took the onus for it.
Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, the opening batsman said that she is also to be blamed for the defeat. The left-handed batter has scores of 35, 23, 18 and 4 in four WPL matches.
“In the last four games it’s been happening. We start well and then lose a cluster of wickets. I take the blame as well. Need to get runs on the board for the bowlers to defend. Overs 7-15 we spoke about getting 7-8 per over. Didn’t work out today. We’re trying to get a balanced team. Let’s see how it goes. I’ve tried to speak to all the players about it. We’ll have to keep doing it. Last one week has been really tough on the team. Lots to reflect, lots to work on. Should admit last week has been really tough. Lot of people have reached out to me. As international cricketers we have faced these situations,” Mandhana said.
RCB suffered their first defeat of the season against Delhi Capitals by a big margin of 60 runs. In their second game, RCB failed to defend a target of 156 against Mumbai Indians and suffered a big 9-wicket defeat. In their 3rd game against Gujarat Giants, RCB fell short by 11 runs while chasing a target of 202. Their bowling has been below par this season and this has cost the franchise big time.
With 4 consecutive defeats, RCB are reeling at the last spot and need to win the remaining of their matches in the season. The teams need to finish in the top three to stand a chance to qualify for the final. The top-placed side will directly qualify for the final while the 2nd and 3rd-placed teams will play an Eliminator on March 24.
