Royal Challengers Bengaluru women are set to begin their Women’s Premier League 2025 campaign against Gujarat Giants on Friday, February 14. Ahead of the highly anticipated season opener, the team received a special message from India’s star batter Virat Kohli.

In a video shared by RCB on social media, Kohli wished Smriti Mandhana and her team the best for the upcoming season. "I would like to wish the women's team all the very best for the WPL. What you did last year was amazing, and I hope you can continue to ride that momentum and take that confidence into this tournament. There is no shortage of talent, as we saw last year as well," Kohli said.

He encouraged the team to embrace the challenge of defending their title. "I am sure that with the load of winning the title on your back, you will go out there and express yourselves. Enjoy the support you get from fans all over India. I wish you all the very best," he added.

RCB women made history in WPL 2024 by breaking the franchise’s title drought. They lifted the trophy after defeating Delhi Capitals women in the final. The defending champions will now face Gujarat Giants at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara in their season opener.

Following the match against Gujarat, RCB will take on Delhi Capitals in the fourth game of the season on February 17.