Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans have always been vocal in their support for their team, even in unrelated sports events. This was evident once again at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 16, where a section of supporters erupted into chants of "RCB, RCB" during India women's emphatic 143-run ODI victory over South Africa.
The chants were not entirely out of place, as two key contributors to RCB's recent Women's Premier League (WPL) triumph were on display. Smriti Mandhana, who captained RCB to the title, scored a magnificent 117-run knock, while leg-spinner Asha Sobhana claimed a four-wicket haul on debut.
Mandhana's century was a testament to her determination and resilience. She had crossed the half-century mark 31 times in ODIs but had only reached three figures on five occasions. However, on a challenging pitch, she showed her class by overcoming mid-innings cramps and guiding her team out of trouble.
"I started off pretty well, and whenever you get two cover drives in the first over you always feel good," said the 27-year-old. "But whenever I thought of taking the game on, there was a wicket. Maybe that helped me stay at the crease."
Asha, 33, also had a memorable outing. After playing a starring role in RCB's IPL triumph, she earned a maiden National team call ahead of the five-match T20I tour to Bangladesh in May. She played two matches there and the ODI debut has followed soon after.
"Back in 2017 or 2018, I remember looking at her in the Challengers, and thinking ‘Oh she can really turn the ball’,” said Mandhana about Asha. “Her last eight months have shown what hard work can do to a player."
"The way she bowled [versus South Africa], turning the ball square, I am happy that she is in my team. Whenever I face her in the nets, it’s really hard to go over the top. I love (batting against) leg-spinners, but I can’t really do it against Asha. That shows her strength.”
The victory was a resounding statement from the Indian women's team, who are preparing for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. Smriti Mandhana and Asha Sobhana's performances will give the team a much-needed boost of confidence as they aim to make a strong impact on the global stage.
Tags: #Cricket, #WomensCricket, #SmritiMandhana, #AshaSobhana, #RCB
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