The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), are poised to make their mark in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. After a triumphant campaign in WPL 2024, where they clinched their maiden title with a dominant 8-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals, RCB has restructured their squad to retain their winning momentum under the astute leadership of Smriti Mandhana.
With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, RCB bolstered their lineup during the WPL 2025 auction held in Bengaluru on December 15, 2024.
RCB: A Journey of Redemption
RCB’s remarkable turnaround in WPL 2024 came after a disappointing inaugural season in 2023, where they finished fourth with five consecutive losses in the group stage. The 2024 edition saw them rise from the ashes, winning crucial matches and eventually lifting the trophy.
Entering the WPL 2025 auction with a ₹3.25 crore purse and four slots to fill (including one overseas player), RCB retained a core of 14 players, including a key trade—Danni Wyatt from UP Warriorz. By spending ₹1.50 crore on four exciting talents, RCB saved ₹1.75 crore for strategic use during the season.
WPL 2025 Auction Picks: Highlights
1) Prema Rawat – ₹1.20 crore
RCB’s star acquisition of the auction, Prema Rawat, emerged as one of the most talked-about buys. The uncapped Indian all-rounder, initially listed at a base price of ₹10 lakh, was sold for a whopping ₹1.20 crore, making her the fourth-most expensive player in the auction.
Rawat’s heroics in the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) played a pivotal role in her rise. She was instrumental in Mussorie Thunders’ title victory, claiming four wickets in three matches and scoring a match-winning unbeaten 32 in the final, earning her the Player of the Match award.
2) Raghvi Bist – ₹10 lakh
Raghvi Bist, an emerging Indian all-rounder, was another strategic addition. She showcased her skills during the India A tour of Australia, amassing 205 runs in the one-day leg. Her adaptability as a batter and bowler makes her a valuable utility player for RCB.
3) Joshitha VJ – ₹10 lakh
RCB’s investment in Joshitha VJ, an uncapped all-rounder, highlights their focus on fostering young talent. Joshitha’s potential with both bat and ball aligns with RCB’s strategy of building a balanced squad.
4) Jagravi Pawar – ₹10 lakh
Pawar’s precision bowling and sharp fielding earned her a spot in RCB’s lineup. Her ability to deliver economical spells provides depth to RCB’s bowling attack, enhancing their options in the middle overs.
RCB WPL 2025 Squad: Full List of Players
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Acquisition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana (C) | Batter | India | Retained |
| Sabbineni Meghana | Batter | India | Retained |
| Richa Ghosh (WK) | Wicket-Keeper Batter | India | Retained |
| Ellyse Perry | All-rounder | Australia | Retained |
| Georgia Wareham | All-rounder | Australia | Retained |
| Shreyanka Patil | All-rounder | India | Retained |
| Asha Sobhana | All-rounder | India | Retained |
| Sophie Devine | All-rounder | New Zealand | Retained |
| Renuka Singh | Bowler | India | Retained |
| Sophie Molineux | All-rounder | Australia | Retained |
| Ekta Bisht | Bowler | India | Retained |
| Kate Cross | Bowler | England | Retained |
| Kanika Ahuja | All-rounder | India | Retained |
| Danni Wyatt | Batter | England | Traded from UPW |
| Prema Rawat | All-rounder | India | ₹1.20 crore |
| Joshitha VJ | All-rounder | India | ₹10 lakh |
| Raghvi Bist | All-rounder | India | ₹10 lakh |
| Jagravi Pawar | Bowler | India | ₹10 lakh |
Strategic Insights: RCB’s Squad for WPL 2025
1) Leadership and Experience
Skipper Smriti Mandhana leads a squad brimming with experienced international stars, including Ellyse Perry, Sophie Devine, and Georgia Wareham. These players bring match-winning capabilities and invaluable leadership qualities.
2) All-Round Strength
RCB has prioritized all-rounders, with new additions like Prema Rawat and Raghvi Bist joining seasoned performers such as Sophie Molineux, Shreyanka Patil, and Asha Sobhana. This gives the team flexibility to adapt to different conditions and game situations.
3) Bowling Depth
The team boasts a versatile bowling unit, including pacers like Renuka Singh and Kate Cross, along with spinners such as Ekta Bisht and Jagravi Pawar. This well-rounded attack equips RCB to handle diverse batting lineups.
4) Emerging Talent
RCB’s focus on nurturing young talent is evident in their acquisition of Joshitha VJ, Raghvi Bist, and Jagravi Pawar. These players not only add depth to the squad but also represent the franchise’s long-term vision.
What Lies Ahead for RCB in WPL 2025
RCB enters the 2025 season with high expectations, armed with a squad that blends experience and youth. Their WPL 2024 triumph demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, and their revamped lineup positions them as strong contenders for a consecutive title.
With Smriti Mandhana’s inspirational leadership, a core of seasoned internationals, and the infusion of young talent, RCB is set to light up the WPL 2025. Fans can expect thrilling performances as the franchise aims to defend its crown and continue its winning legacy.
FAQs
1. Who was RCB’s most expensive buy in the WPL 2025 auction?
Prema Rawat was RCB’s most expensive acquisition, bought for ₹1.20 crore.
2. How many players did RCB purchase during the auction?
RCB bought four players: Prema Rawat, Joshitha VJ, Raghvi Bist, and Jagravi Pawar.
3. What was RCB’s budget before the auction?
RCB entered the WPL 2025 auction with a purse of ₹3.25 crore.
4. Who are the key overseas players in RCB’s squad for WPL 2025?
Key overseas players include Ellyse Perry, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux, Danni Wyatt, and Kate Cross.
5. When will the WPL 2025 season begin?
The Women’s Premier League 2025 is expected to commence in March 2025.
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