Navi Mumbai, Jan 9 (NationPress) England’s fast bowler Lauren Bell expressed that the lead-up to the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) has been an enjoyable experience after joining the 2024 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru. She shared her excitement about participating in the opening match against Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium.

Bell was acquired by RCB during the auction after previously being part of UP Warriorz for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, although she opted out of the latter. “It’s definitely been a change. A new franchise, and obviously, RCB has a huge following,” she mentioned.

“It’s been a whirlwind since I arrived… trying to connect with everyone and learn their names. It’s been a blast, and I can’t wait for tonight’s match,” Lauren said in an interview with broadcasters.

The 23-year-old quickly acclimated to the RCB atmosphere and even enjoyed a light moment with teammate Georgia Wareham at a local café where they attempted to craft their own coffees. “This is quite unexpected for me. I had no idea what to anticipate. You don’t want to head into an auction with set expectations. I was absolutely thrilled,” she remarked.

“It’s a fantastic franchise that has shown interest in me. We visited a café today, and Georgia fancied herself as a barista, so they kindly let us take a turn at the coffee machine. We’ve got a pretty solid arrangement here,” she added.

Nat Sciver-Brunt, the seam-bowling all-rounder for Mumbai Indians, credited the franchise’s success to the culture fostered within the team. “It really boils down to the squad. It may sound cliché, but various players have risen to the occasion at different points. The environment we’ve cultivated over the last three years is something special.

“Everyone supports one another, and in pivotal moments, someone invariably steps up. I believe that’s true. Given the uncertainty from the sidelines, particularly during the auction, that was likely part of the strategy. Why alter a successful formula? We’ve also made some excellent additions, so we’re eager to kick off the season tonight.

“I’m looking forward to it. I’d love to replicate my past season (where I won both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Orange Cap awards in 2025), but when I’m at my peak, I focus on each ball and remain present. I won’t dwell on last year; I’ll just aim to stay in my zone and deliver as I have before,” she stated.

Nat’s introduction video also generated significant buzz, and she described it as a fun experience. “I’d be dishonest if I claimed that was truly me! It gave me quite a scare; my brother even wondered if it was AI, which I doubt. I’m pretty sure it was a body double. Riding around Mumbai on a motorbike would have been exhilarating, but I don’t think the team management would have appreciated that.”