As the Women’s Premier League (WPL) defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had taken a strategic approach to strengthen their squad in the 2025 WPL mini auction. Their four domestic picks reflect a well-rounded strategy to bolster key areas, ensuring the team remains competitive and adaptable as they gear up for the upcoming season.
RCB Captain Smriti Mandhana shared her excitement about the new players, “I am really happy with the auction picks; we have got what we were looking for, making the team more dynamic and ready for all challenges and situations. I am thrilled to have Prema Rawat, Joshitha VJ, Raghvi Bist, and Jagravi Pawar, who have done exceptionally well in the domestic circuit, and I can’t wait to join the girls in the dressing room and give our best for the RCB fans.”
One of the biggest highlights of RCB’s auction success was the addition of Jagravi Pawar, who emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker with her off break bowling in the 2024 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy. With 16 wickets in 11 matches at an impressive average of 10.68, the 25-year-old has proven her ability to deliver under pressure.
Another impactful buy for RCB is Raghvi Bist, whose all-round abilities make her a valuable asset. In the 2024 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, Raghvi scored 158 runs at a stellar strike rate of 129.50, showcasing her aggressive batting style. She carried her form into the Senior Women’s T20 Challenger Trophy, scoring 162 runs in 5 matches at a strike rate of 120.89. Additionally, her bowling contributions—6 wickets in the 2023 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy—further underline her versatility and ability to adapt to various match scenarios.
Adding to the mix of talented all-rounders is the 18-year-old, Joshitha VJ, who impressed in the recent Women’s Under-19 Quadrangular Series where she took 7 wickets from 4 matches. Her standout performances include a 3 for 17 against South Africa and an all-round show of 21 off 15 balls and 1 for 17 against India B. Known for her sharp pace bowling and handy lower-order contributions with the bat, Joshitha brings youthful energy and untapped potential to the RCB setup.
The most high-profile acquisition, however, was Prema Rawat, a leg-spin all-rounder bought for ₹1.2 crore. Prema has been a consistent performer on the domestic circuit, claiming 7 wickets in 9 matches in the 2024 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy. Her record was even more impressive in 2023, when she bagged 16 wickets in just 10 matches. Her ability to control the flow of runs in the middle overs while picking key wickets makes her a vital component of RCB’s spin-heavy strategy.
RCB Head Coach Luke Williams expressed confidence in the team’s new recruits, “We’re delighted with the work our scouts have done throughout the season and during the camps we hosted, which gave us the chance to carefully evaluate players. Prema brings great control as a wrist spinner, which is invaluable in T20 cricket, and strengthening our spin arsenal was a key priority. Additionally, the pace-bowling all-rounders provide the flexibility we need to handle various match scenarios.”
RCB’s 2024 title-winning campaign was built on standout performances, with Ellyse Perry (347 runs, Orange Cap) and Shreyanka Patil (13 wickets, Purple Cap) leading the charge. Adding a fresh blend of domestic talent ensures the team remains dynamic and well-rounded.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad for Women’s Premier League 2025
Smriti Mandhana (C), Sabbineni Meghana, Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, Georgia Wareham, Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana, Sophie Devine, Renuka Singh, Sophie Molineux, Ekta Bisht, Kate Cross, Kanika Ahuja, Danni Wyatt (traded), Prema Rawat, Joshitha VJ, Raghvi Bist, Jagravi Pawar
With a balanced mix of seasoned internationals and promising domestic players, RCB is set to defend their crown with renewed energy and determination. The team’s “Play Bold” philosophy continues to shine through their calculated choices, setting the stage for another thrilling WPL season.
Loves all things female cricket
