New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Smriti Mandhana feels her team is in a strong position ahead of the TATA Womens Premier League 2026. RCB is gearing to begin their campaign against defending champions Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium on Friday. While speaking about her thoughts on RCBs squad and the approach going into the new season Mandhana said Were a young group but theres a lot of energy and excitement around the team. Every time we go onto the field we want to build the right mindset and keep improving not just look at one result. Smriti Mandhana on her effort to develop power-hitting Mandhana also spoke about a deliberate effort to develop her power-hitting while staying true to her natural game. She said Theres a conscious effort from my side to hit more sixes. I’ve been working quite a bit on my power-hitting and hopefully I can bring that into the WPL without moving away from timing and my natural game.” Mandhana further said When I look at fancy shots I know I am still a little away from them. But if I could muscle those sixes I’ll be very happy with that. Mandhana also reflected on Ellyse Perrys impact on the team Despite Ellyse Perry not being part of the RCBs squad this season Mandhana reflected on her impact on the team Shes been amazing for us. We’ve learned so much from her work ethic and the way she carries herself around the group especially for the younger players. Of course no one can replace someone like her but we have a young high-quality group that’s really gelling together. Mandhana also opened up about the broader impact of the Womens Premier League Itss always exciting to see talents coming up in WPL. Every WPL is just getting us closer to where we want to be. That shows that WPL has made a lot of impact on us and everyone knows that if you have a good WPL especially in the T20 format you always have a chance.