Introduction
In the vibrant world of cricket, star players often capture the spotlight. This week, we focus on two of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) finest: Smriti Mandhana and Virat Kohli. As we preview their careers, we will delve into their impressive stats for the franchise.
Smriti Mandhana's Journey with RCB
Smriti Mandhana has quickly become a key player for RCB in the Women's Premier League (WPL). Retained for ?3.5 crore ahead of the 2026 auction, she continues to lead the team. In her first three seasons with RCB, she has shown exceptional skill on the field.
Mandhana’s Key Stats
Over 26 matches, Mandhana's performance shines with a total of 646 runs. Below are some prominent statistics from her WPL journey with RCB:
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Half-Centuries |
|---|
| 26 | 646 | 24.84 | 128.68 | 4 |
In her title-winning 2024 season, she notably scored 300 runs and maintained a strike rate above 128, reflecting her aggression and ability to score under pressure.
Virat Kohli's Legacy at RCB
Virat Kohli, one of cricket's most celebrated players, has been an integral part of RCB since its inception in 2008. He led the men's team to its first IPL title in 2025, breaking a lengthy trophy drought.
Kohli’s Key Stats
Kohli's performance over 267 matches is downright historic. In the first 26 matches of his IPL career, the following stats stand out:
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Half-Centuries |
|---|
| 26 | 361 | 17.19 | 105.56 | 1 |
Despite a slow start, Kohli’s transformation into an all-time great is evident with his overall tally of over 8600 runs, including eight centuries and 63 fifties.
Comparative Analysis
As we compare both players, we see intriguing parallels and clear distinctions:
| Player | Total Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|
| Smriti Mandhana | 26 | 646 | 24.84 | 128.68 |
| Virat Kohli | 26 | 361 | 17.19 | 105.56 |
Mandhana has led RCB with impressive stats that reflect her ability to perform in high-pressure scenarios, while Kohli's enduring legacy provides a foundation for future generations.
Conclusion
This statistical journey showcases both players' contributions to RCB's rich history. As the upcoming seasons unfold, it will be fascinating to track their performances and how they continue to shape the future of RCB cricket.