How Did Smriti Mandhana Achieve Three Titles in Just Three Years?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) women's team has achieved remarkable success in the Women's Premier League (WPL), winning three titles in three years, as stated by captain Smriti Mandhana. Their latest victory, a six-wicket triumph against Delhi Capitals, marks their second WPL championship, elevating the franchise's status after a title drought that had persisted until recent years.

Last updated: 05 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru women have emerged victorious in the WPL final, further establishing their dominance in women's cricket. Smriti Mandhana has expressed her pride in achieving three titles over three years, highlighting the unwavering support from RCB fans. The team managed to successfully chase down a target of 204 runs, showcasing their resilience and determination on a competitive surface.

Key takeaways

• RCB women have won three titles in three years.
• The latest victory came against Delhi Capitals by six wickets.
• Smriti Mandhana praised the support staff and team spirit as key factors in their success.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the inception of the Women's Premier League, RCB has grown from a struggling franchise to a powerhouse. Key milestones include:

• 2022: RCB finishes in the lower half of the league.
• 2023: The team shows significant improvement, reaching the playoffs.
• 2024: RCB wins the WPL final, defeating Delhi Capitals and claiming their second title.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The RCB women's team has solidified its position in women's cricket by winning the WPL final for the second time, a feat that reflects the team's growth and determination.

What was already established

Prior to this victory, RCB had struggled to secure titles, with the men's team being the subject of much scrutiny. However, the women's team's success has turned the narrative around the franchise.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The success of women's sports, particularly in cricket, is inspiring increased participation and viewership in the UK. This victory may encourage more sponsorship and investment in women's teams.

Businesses and jobs

With growing popularity, there is potential for increased job opportunities within women's cricket, including coaching, management, and sponsorship roles.

Policy and regulation

The success of women's teams could drive changes in policies regarding funding and support for women's sports, leading to more equal opportunities within the sporting sector.

Numbers that matter

• 3: Total titles won by RCB women in the last three years.
• 204: Runs chased down by RCB in the final against Delhi Capitals.
• 4: Finals lost by Delhi Capitals, highlighting their struggle to secure a championship.

Definitions and jargon buster

• WPL: Women's Premier League, a professional cricket league for women in India.
• RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a franchise cricket team based in Bangalore, India.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect RCB to focus on maintaining their momentum, with training sessions and strategic planning for the next season.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the popularity of women's cricket grows, we may see more investment in women's teams and leagues, including potential expansion of the WPL.

Signals to watch

• Viewership numbers for women's cricket matches.
• Increased sponsorship deals for women's teams.
• Participation rates in women's cricket at grassroots levels.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support women's sports by attending matches and promoting teams.
• Encourage young athletes to participate in cricket and other sports.

Don’t

• Underestimate the impact of women's sports on the overall sporting landscape.
• Neglect the importance of equal funding and support for women's teams.

Checklist

• Stay informed about upcoming matches and events in women's cricket.
• Engage with women's cricket on social media platforms.
• Consider supporting local women's teams through sponsorship or volunteering.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the RCB women's success is commendable, it's essential to note that the competitive landscape in women's cricket continues to evolve. Factors such as funding, player retention, and performance consistency are critical in ensuring ongoing success.

Bottom line

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru women's team's triumph in the WPL final not only marks a significant achievement for the franchise but also reflects the growing prominence of women's cricket. As the sport continues to gain visibility and support, the future looks promising for aspiring athletes and teams across the UK.

FAQs

How many titles has RCB women won?

RCB women have won three titles in three years, showcasing their dominance in the Women's Premier League.

What was the score in the WPL final?

The WPL final saw RCB chase down a target of 204 runs, defeating Delhi Capitals by six wickets.

Who is the captain of RCB women?

Smriti Mandhana is the captain of RCB women, leading the team with remarkable skill and determination.