At the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Mandhana was clearly annoyed by a cameraman’s antics during her pre-match practice on Friday, 9 January, before the Women’s Premier League (WPL) match against the Mumbai Indians (MI).
Mandhana was dealing with throwdowns just outside the 30-yard circle prior to the highly anticipated match. To get a clear view of the southpaw making her shots, the videographer nearly moved into the ridiculous point position. As the ball reached the Indian vice captain, he was advancing.
Mandhana appeared dissatisfied after obstructing the delivery and responded by shrugging her shoulders and saying a few words. Without delay, the latter turned to his right and left the vicinity.
A fan used his phone to videotape the entire encounter, and within minutes, the footage became viral on social media.
View the video below:
Cameraman not leaving Smrithi alone to practice and see Smrithi’s reaction 😂 pic.twitter.com/QVF8q4WTzw
— RCB (@RCBtweetzz) January 9, 2026
In their first meeting, RCB defeated the reigning champions because to a brilliant half-century from Nadine de Klerk, who scored 18 off 13 balls while Mandhana failed to deliver. The South African all-rounder helped RCB win by three wickets off the final delivery by following up her four-for with the ball with a 63-ball 63 not out with the bat. They amassed 20 runs off the last over bowled by Nat Sciver-Brunt as they chased down a goal of 155 runs.
Nadine was brilliant to end the game that way: Smriti Mandhana
After winning the exciting match, Mandhana was overjoyed, pointing out that previous season’s close games didn’t go their way. She also commended de Klerk for her outstanding contribution to the innings’ conclusion.
“Yes, I believe it was a thriller for the WPL’s opening game. RCB also has a reputation for playing thrilling games. We were on the receiving end of these contests last year, and we’re thrilled that we succeeded,” Mandhana remarked.
“It was brilliant of Nadine to end the game in that manner. Everyone was generally optimistic. We were laughing together. Everyone was generally upbeat, even when things weren’t going well. Since we won, I believe it’s easy to say anything now. However, aside from that, the preparations have been excellent,” she continued.
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