'We'll back her in the powerplay' - Smriti Mandhana outlines plans to promote Grace Harris as opener in WPL 2026

Smriti Mandhana discusses Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s strategy for WPL 2026, revealing intentions to open the batting with Grace Harris to strengthen the team’s top-order impact.

Smriti Mandhana and Grace Harris (image Credit: WPL)

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved their second victory of the season by beating UP Warriorz in the fifth match of the tournament. Thanks to Shreyanka Patil and Nadine de Klerk's bowling spells and Grace Harris' and Smriti Mandhana's batting prowess, RCB won the match by nine wickets. With this, they are the new table toppers of the season.

Harris' fiery 85 off just 40 balls helped RCB finish off the chase in just 12.1 overs, making it an unforgettable night for the players as well as for the crowd watching the match. So far, all of the games have been quite interesting to watch. Harris' perormance was power-packed and when asked about her batting position, Mandhana mentioned that they will back her to play in the powerplays.

"Yeah, we had a little bit of discussion on how we want the batting order to look like because she can do middle order as well because that's what she does for the Aussie team. But she does open for the Brisbane Heat at Big Bash. But I think we all were very, very clear of how dangerous she can be up front. And if she gets going, it's almost you take away the match from the opposition. So, yeah, we thought we'll back her in the powerplay. She's just been batting the first innings as well, she was just smacking the ball," said Smriti Mandhana at the post-match presentation.

Read also: Analysis | Which WPL team packs more strength? Squad analysis of every WPL team before WPL 2026

Not to speak too ahead of anything: Smriti Mandhana

Smriti Mandhana was asked about winning trophies and how does it feel. Moreover, she was questioned that she has a feeling that RCB can win this year as well to which she gave a very matured reply stating that they would like to focus on each and every game and not the results part of it.

"With RCB, one thing I've learned is not to speak too ahead of anything. You have to just keep doing your work. One thing, again, I believe is just put your hard work in. And I just feel this is the most hardworking group we've got in the last three, four years. Everyone just really switched on. So, we're just really focusing on smaller things and doing things right. And let's see how we go around," said Smriti Mandhana.

Where to watch WPL 2026 matches?

Cricket fans in India can watch the WPL 2026 matches from January 9 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: Former India bowler blames Test series loss against SA on Kohli-Rohit transition, makes eye-opening claim

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