Smriti Mandhana Apologizes to Ellyse Perry After RCB’s Defeat

In a thrilling encounter during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced a heartbreaking Super Over loss to the UP Warriorz at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on February 24. The match was particularly significant due to Ellyse Perry’s outstanding performance, which unfortunately did not lead to a victory for her team.

Ellyse Perry, the Australian all-rounder, showcased her exceptional talent by scoring an unbeaten 90 runs off 56 balls. Her innings included nine boundaries and three sixes, propelling RCB to a competitive total of 181 runs. Perry’s dominance with the bat was evident as she anchored the innings, especially after the dismissal of her batting partner, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who contributed a valuable 57 runs.

Despite Perry’s heroics, the match culminated in a Super Over after the UP Warriorz matched RCB’s total. In the Super Over, RCB managed to score only four runs while chasing a target of nine, leading to their defeat. The outcome was disheartening for the team, considering Perry’s stellar performance.

RCB’s captain, Smriti Mandhana, expressed profound disappointment in the post-match presentation. She acknowledged Perry’s exceptional contribution and conveyed her regret for not securing a win to honor such a remarkable innings. Mandhana stated, “As a team, really have to tell [Perry] we are sorry. It was brilliant to watch her batting. How could we not win that game for her.” 

Mandhana also reflected on the team’s overall performance, noting that while there were positive aspects in both batting and bowling, the inability to clinch the victory overshadowed their efforts. She mentioned, “It was disappointing to be on the losing side, we did a lot of things right both with bat and ball. These things happen in cricket, we will come back stronger.” 

The match also highlighted strategic decisions during the Super Over. Notably, despite her outstanding form, Perry was not selected to bat in the Super Over. Instead, Mandhana and Richa Ghosh took the crease but were unable to chase down the modest target set by the UP Warriorz. This decision has been a point of discussion among fans and analysts, considering Perry’s momentum during the regular innings.

Ellyse Perry’s performance in the WPL 2025 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over four matches, she has amassed 235 runs, boasting an impressive average of 117.50 and a striking rate of 160.95. Her consistency with the bat underscores her status as one of the premier players in women’s cricket. In the match against the UP Warriorz, Perry surpassed Meg Lanning to become the all-time leading run-scorer in the WPL, a testament to her enduring excellence. 

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The RCB team, despite a strong start to the tournament, has faced setbacks with consecutive losses. These defeats have prompted introspection within the squad, especially in terms of strategic decisions and execution during critical moments. Mandhana’s leadership will be pivotal as the team aims to regroup and harness the positives from their performances to turn the tide in upcoming matches.

Looking ahead, RCB is set to face the Gujarat Giants at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on February 27. This match presents an opportunity for the team to rebound and for players like Perry to continue their exceptional form. The team’s ability to learn from past mistakes and adapt will be crucial in their quest for success in the tournament.

In conclusion, while individual brilliance, as exhibited by Ellyse Perry, can significantly influence a match, cricket remains a team sport where collective effort and strategic acumen determine the outcome. RCB’s journey in the WPL 2025 serves as a reminder of the sport’s unpredictability and the continuous need for teams to evolve and adapt.