WPL 2026: 5 players Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can retain ahead of Women’s Premier League mega auction

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The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had a disappointing Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season, failing to qualify for the playoffs despite entering as the defending champions.

Their campaign, which began with high hopes, quickly derailed due to a combination of poor form and injuries. The team endured a mid-season slump, suffering five consecutive losses that significantly dented their playoff chances. Ultimately, they were eliminated after losing a must-win game against the UP Warriorz by 12 runs.

A major factor behind their struggles was a series of narrow defeats at home, where they failed to close out games despite strong starts. Injuries to key players like Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana, and Sophie Molineux also disturbed the team’s balance, forcing frequent changes in the playing XI.

With the mega auction looming ahead of the WPL 2026 season, RCB’s management faces crucial decisions on player retention. Having tasted success in 2024 when they lifted their maiden WPL title, the franchise will aim to rebuild a core group capable of reclaiming their dominance.

Here’s a look at five players RCB are likely to retain — two overseas stars, two capped Indian players, and one uncapped youngster — as they prepare for a fresh start.

1. Smriti Mandhana — The leader and batting pillar

RCB’s skipper Smriti Mandhana remains the face of the franchise and a vital cog in their setup. Despite her team’s struggles, Mandhana’s leadership and experience continue to be invaluable. In WPL 2025, she managed two half-centuries and looked in good touch at times but lacked consistent support from the other end.

Beyond her runs, Mandhana’s aggressive yet composed approach at the top of the order provides RCB with stability and flair. As captain, she has shown a strong tactical understanding, and the management would want her to continue leading the side during their transition phase. Retaining her will be a no-brainer for RCB as they build toward another title charge.

2. Ellyse Perry — The dependable all-rounder

Veteran Australian superstar Ellyse Perry has been one of RCB’s most consistent overseas performers since the league’s inception. Even though she missed a couple of games due to injury in 2025, Perry showcased her class with both bat and ball when fit. Her composed batting in the middle order and 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 to the side, RCB are almost certain to retain her as one of their overseas options.

Also READ: WPL 2026: 5 players Mumbai Indians (MI) can retain ahead of Women’s Premier League mega auction

3. Richa Ghosh — The aggressive game-changer

Dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh has been one of RCB’s brightest performers in an otherwise disappointing campaign. Her fearless batting and ability to accelerate in the death overs have made her a fan favourite. In 2025, she scored 230 runs with two impressive fifties, often rescuing RCB from tricky situations.

At just 21 years of age, Ghosh has already established herself as a key member of India’s T20 setup. 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 years to come.

4. Danni Wyatt-Hodge — The overseas spark

England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge was a valuable addition to RCB’s top order in 2025, offering attacking starts in the powerplay. Though her numbers may not seem exceptional, Wyatt’s aggressive intent and experience proved crucial during several matches. Her adaptability to Indian conditions and proven track record in T20 cricket make her a strong contender for retention as RCB’s second overseas player. She provides a perfect foil to 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

Although VJ Joshitha didn’t have a breakthrough season in 2025, the 19-year-old pacer remains one of RCB’s most promising uncapped talents. Despite going wicketless in the four matches she played, Joshitha showed glimpses of potential with her control and swing movement.

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 retained later). Retaining her would also ensure RCB continues to nurture homegrown talent.

Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) appoints new bowling coach ahead of WPL 2026

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.