Bad news for RCB fans: Pooja Vastrakar, the team’s versatile all-rounder, has been cleared unfit for the first few games of Women’s Premier League 2026. Her injury rehabilitation is taking longer than expected, prompting the franchise to plan without her at the start.
This development disrupts RCB’s carefully crafted strategy. Vastrakar’s ability to swing games single-handedly – whether with her medium-pace bowling or aggressive strokeplay – makes her indispensable. The team now faces a reshuffled playing XI for the marquee clashes.
Official word from RCB highlights their commitment to player welfare. ‘Pooja’s health is our priority. She’ll be back stronger,’ read the statement. This cautious approach underscores the long-term view amid the high-stakes T20 spectacle.
Looking back, Vastrakar shone brightly in WPL 2025, bagging wickets and accelerating chases. Her void challenges captain Smriti Mandhana to unearth new heroes from the bench.
As the season dawns, all eyes on how RCB navigates this setback. Depth in the squad and smart rotations could turn this into an opportunity for breakthroughs. A fit Vastrakar rejoining mid-tournament might just spark the title charge RCB craves.