Ahead of the big finale of the Women’s Premier League 2024, the Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper, Smriti Mandhana remains optimistic and remains unfazed by the pressure that comes with playing in the finals.
Mandhana had addressed the media ahead of the finals in a press conference. She began by speaking on the importance of connecting with the whole franchise including the men’s which added pressure. RCB as a franchise are yet to secure a title and it will be a big opportunity to put the demons of choking in the finals behind them for good.
“We were just thinking that we are two seasons into it, so let’s not put too much stress. So not co-relating with what happened with the men’s team,” Mandhana said in the post-match press conference after defeating Mumbai Indians by five runs in the Eliminator here on Friday.
“What cricket has taught me is it is important to live in the present. It’s just about playing good cricket on that particular day, whoever plays the best cricket tomorrow is going to win,” she added.
The RCB skipper looked back on their first campaign and remains intent on sticking with what has worked for the team and does not intend on making major changes ahead of the final against the Delhi Capitals. She commented, “Last year wasn’t the greatest campaign for RCB. (But) the conversation in the last 25 days has always been around we are enjoying each other’s company, are really focussed on the process, training well. So doesn’t change anything. We are not changing anything overnight because it is a final.”
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The opening batter has been in fine form with the bat and has delivered some crucial runs for the side on their route to the finals. She is currently the fifth-highest run-scorer in the tournament with the star-allrounder Ellyse Perry taking the orange cap.
The captain, however, remains focused on continuing to deliver with the bat and leading the side from the front. “We give a lot of importance to the role of captain but the captain is as good as the team. Nothing changes tomorrow, we are playing a good Delhi Capitals side, who have played some amazing cricket over the last two seasons,” Mandhana added.
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Speaking on the opposing captain, Meg Lanning, Mandhana was all praise for the Australian legend and has looked up to the batter. She concluded by saying,” I always looked up to her (Lanning), a little conversation with someone who understands batting as much as she does helps. Taught me how to look up to other players. From the time I (made my) debut, Lanning was the top run scorer for Australia. It’s been nice to watch the way she has gone about.”
The WPL 2024 finals will be a big chance for RCB to put the ‘choker’ tag behind them and start afresh. But DC has been fairly dominant and will also look to get the franchise’s first title as well and will prove to be a tightly fought contest at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
(with PTI inputs)
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