RCB’s rough campaign at WPL 2025
Their campaign, which started with high expectations, was quickly derailed due to a combination of poor form and injuries. The team suffered a mid-season slump, suffering five consecutive losses that significantly affected their play-off chances. Ultimately, they were eliminated after losing a match they had to win against the UP Warriorz with 12 runs.
A major factor behind their struggles was a series of narrow defeats at home, in which they failed to close out the matches despite a strong start. Injuries to key players such as Shreyanka PatilAsha SobhanaAnd Sophie Molineux also disrupted the team’s balance, requiring frequent changes in the playing XI.
RCB can retain 5 players before WPL 2025
With the mega auction approaching ahead of the WPL 2026 season, RCB management faces crucial decisions on player retention. After tasting success in 2024 when they lifted their first WPL title, the franchise will look to rebuild a core group capable of regaining their dominance.
Here’s a look at the five players RCB are likely to retain – two foreign stars, two capped Indian players and one young uncapped player – as they prepare for a fresh start.
1. Smriti Mandhana — The leader and battle pillar
- Role: Opening hitter and captain
- Price 2025: INR 3.40 crore
- Performance in 2025: 197 runs in 8 games, 2 of which were fifties
RCB’s skipper Smriti Mandhana remains the face of the franchise and an essential cog in their scheme. Despite her team’s challenges, Mandhana’s leadership and experience remain invaluable. In WPL 2025, she led two half-centuries and looked good in touch at times, but lacked consistent support from the other end.
Besides her runs, Mandhana’s aggressive yet composed approach at the top of the order offers RCB stability and flair. As captain, she has shown strong tactical acumen and the management would like her to continue to lead the side during the transition phase. Retaining her will be a no-brainer for RCB as they work towards another title challenge.
2. Ellyse Perry — The reliable all-rounder
- Role: All-rounder
- Price 2025: INR 1.70 crore
- Performance in 2025: 197 runs in 6 games with 1 fifty
Veteran Australian superstar Ellyse Perry has been one of RCB’s most consistent foreign performers since the league’s inception. Although she missed a few matches in 2025 due to injury, Perry showed her class with both bat and ball when fit. Her composed batting in the middle order and her ability to deliver crucial overs in pressure situations make her an indispensable asset. Perry’s leadership experience also complements Mandhana’s captaincy, providing calmness during tense moments. Given her match-winning pedigree and the balance she brings, RCB are almost certain to retain her as one of their overseas options.
READ also: WPL 2026: Mumbai Indians (MI) can retain 5 players ahead of Women’s Premier League mega auction
3. Richa Ghosh — The aggressive game-changer
- Role: Wicketkeeper-batsman
- Price 2025: INR 1.90 crore
- Achievements in 2025: 230 runs in 8 matches including 2 fifties
Dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Richa Ghosh has been one of RCB’s best performers in an otherwise disappointing campaign. Her fearless batting and ability to accelerate in the death overs have made her a fan favorite. In 2025, she scored 230 runs with two impressive fifties, often saving RCB from tough situations.
At just 21 years old, Ghosh has already established himself as a key member of the Indian T20 set-up. Her dual role behind the stumps and in the middle order makes her a must-retain for RCB. She represents the future of the franchise and could potentially take on greater leadership responsibilities in the coming years.
4. Danni Wyatt-Hodge – The overseas spark
- Role: Opening fitting
- Price 2025: INR 30 lakh
- Performance in 2025: 137 runs in 6 games with 1 fifty
England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge was a valuable addition to RCB’s top flight in 2025, providing attacking starts in the powerplay. While her numbers may not seem exceptional, Wyatt’s aggressive intentions and experience proved crucial during several matches. Her adaptability to Indian conditions and proven track record in T20 cricket make her a strong candidate for retention as RCB’s second foreign player. She perfectly complements Mandhana at the top, and the pair could form one of the most formidable opening partnerships in WPL 2026.
5. VJ Joshitha – The promising young pacer
- Role: Mediocre pacer
- Price 2025: INR 10 lakh
- Performance in 2025: 4 matches, no wickets
Although VJ Joshitha did not have a breakthrough season in 2025, the 19-year-old pacer remains one of RCB’s most promising uncapped talents. Despite being wicketless in the four matches she played, Joshitha showed glimpses of potential with her control and swing.
Given RCB’s limited pool of uncapped Indian players, the management is likely to back Joshitha for another season, banking on her development under experienced bowlers like Perry and Renuka Singh (if saved later). Retaining her would also ensure that RCB continues to nurture homegrown talent.
READ also: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) appoints new bowling coach ahead of WPL 2026
This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
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