The third season of the Women’s Premier League is all set to kick off tomorrow. However, both the inaugural champions, Mumbai Indians (MI) and defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have faced major blows as their key players, Pooja Vastrakar and Asha Sobhana have been ruled out due to injuries.
Pooja, an all-rounder had been a pivotal player for Mumbai Indians scoring 126 runs and picking up 7 wickets across two seasons. Meanwhile, leg spinner Asha Sobhana was a crucial asset in RCB’s bowling attack picking up 17 wickets in 15 matches. Both franchises will definitely miss out on the valuable contributions of these two standout performers.
However, the teams have announced their replacements, ensuring a balanced and competitive squad. MI has signed young left-arm spinner Parunika Sisodia, who previously featured for Gujarat Giants. Sisodia displayed her talent on the international stage, delivering a match-winning performance in the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup semi-final against England, earning the Player of the Match award. She joined MI for INR 10 lakh.
Mumbai Indians WPL 2025 Squad:
On the other hand, RCB has roped in wicketkeeper-batter Nuzhat Parween as Sobhana’s replacement. Parween, an experienced campaigner from Railways, has represented India in five T20Is and brings a good experience to the squad. She joined RCB for her base price of INR 30 lakh.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru WPL 2025 Squad:
Both MI and RCB head into WPL 2025 with strong squads, each aiming at their second WPL title. MI will rely on their experienced core and talented youngsters to fill the void left by Vastrakar. RCB, fresh from their triumphant WPL 2024 campaign, will look to defend their title despite Sobhana’s absence.
RCB embarks on their first challenge on 14th February against Gujarat Giants while Mumbai faces Delhi in a thrilling encounter on 15th February.
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