Mumbai, March 12 -- Smriti Mandhana endured a tough Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025, both as a captain and a batter. Leading a team that failed to reach the knockout stage and struggling with inconsistent performances herself, it was a season to forget for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper. The defending champions from 2024 finished second-last, barely ahead of bottom-placed UP Warriorz, thanks only to a superior net run rate.

Despite the setbacks, Mandhana's final press conference of the season--following an 11-run victory over Mumbai Indians--showed her resilience and maturity. Rather than appearing dejected after a disappointing campaign, she displayed a sense of wisdom and pragmatism. Almost philosophically, she lamente...