"Now it's time for another No. 18 to lead a very special RCB team in WPL. Yes, we are talking about Smriti Mandhana. Go on Smriti. You have the support best team and best fans in the world," Kohli said.

"It is an incredible privilege to captain RCB, what an incredible franchise and so much history and great players just walking through that dressing room. I am very confident that our women's captain has all the attributes to lead RCB. All the very best, Smriti Mandhana. See you at the games," du Plessis said.

RCB's director of cricket, Mike Hesson, had hinted on the sidelines of the auction that Mandhana would be taking charge. "Smriti has got plenty of captaincy experience and is familiar with the Indian conditions, so highly likely [she will be captain]," Hesson had said.

"It is just a great feeling to see Virat and Faf speak so much about leading RCB. And I would like to thank RCB management for me giving me this amazing opportunity," Mandhana said in the announcement video. "I am looking forward to receiving all the love and support from you fans, who I am told are the best in the world. And I promise you to give my 100% to lead to success in the WPL."

RCB will not have any home games in season one, with the full tournament set to be played in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.