Cricket fandom can be a fascinating journey, especially when allegiances are tested and new chapters unfold. This holds true for Kate Cross, the newest member of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, who has pledged her eternal support to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) men’s team in Indian Premier League (IPL).
In a delightful revelation during a ‘No Balls: The Cricket Podcast’, Cross affirmed that her heart remains with CSK in the IPL, even as she embarks on a new adventure with RCB in WPL.
“My Twitter has blown up. And my historic Tweet slating RCB because I support CSK in men’s team (IPL) and they are big rivals of RCB. All my Tweets are coming off my timeline. And I am sorry for everything I have said in the past, RCB,” Kate Cross said.
On question regarding burning CSK jersey, Cross said: “No, I am definitely not doing that. I am still supporting CSK in men’s. Let me put that out. I will always support CSK in men’s. However CSK doesn’t have women’s team but I am game and pretty mean.”
The commitment to supporting the men in yellow also was spotted on social media when her friend Alexandra Hartley gave England international a warm welcome. Hartley tagged Cross on social media following her acquisition by RCB in the WPL 2024 auction.
The cricketing world might remember Cross for a playful troll aimed at the Bengaluru-based franchise during the IPL 2020 season. Despite her light-hearted banter, fate has brought Kate Cross to don the RCB colors for the upcoming Women’s Premier League, showcasing the unpredictable and amusing nature of the cricketing journey.
‘CSK fan’ Kate Cross unsold in inaugural WPL
Kate Cross, once unsold in the inaugural edition of the WPL, found her way into the T20 league as a commentator. Now, with her cricketing prowess, the 32-year-old medium pacer is set to make a mark in WPL 2024. Having played in esteemed leagues like the Women’s Big Bash League and The Hundred Women, Cross has the experience and skill set to contribute significantly to her new team.
In the last edition of The Hundred Women, representing the Northern Superchargers, Cross demonstrated her bowling prowess by scalping 10 wickets in as many games. Her international record is equally commendable, with 11 wickets in 16 T20Is, 79 wickets in 59 ODIs, and 24 wickets in seven Tests.
As the WPL 2024 approaches, Kate Cross’s arrival at RCB brings a mix of enthusiasm, experience, and a charming connection to CSK. Cricket fans are eager to witness her contributions on the field, and it remains to be seen if her support for CSK’s men’s team will spark friendly banter in the RCB camp.
Regardless, it adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming women’s cricket spectacle.