After scripting a remarkable turnaround in WPL 2024—from five consecutive defeats to lifting their maiden trophy—Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face an uphill battle even before their title defense begins. The team has suffered major setbacks, with Sophie Molineux ruled out due to injury, Sophie Devine taking a break from cricket, and Kate Cross withdrawing for rehabilitation. To make matters worse, key spinners Shreyanka Patil (shin) and Asha Sobhana (knee) remain doubtful due to long-term injuries, while Ellyse Perry, only recently recovering from a hip injury, may start the season purely as a batter.
With multiple replacements drafted in, the challenge for captain Smriti Mandhana will be ensuring that the squad gels quickly—something they struggled with in the inaugural season. Mandhana has been in stellar form in white-ball cricket over the past year, and her leadership will be crucial in keeping RCB’s title ambitions alive.
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Squad Adjustments and Auction Strategy
RCB made notable moves to counterbalance the loss of key players. Danielle Wyatt-Hodge was brought in via a pre-auction trade from UP Warriorz, and she is now expected to open alongside Mandhana. At the mini-auction, RCB made headlines by signing leg-spinning all-rounder Prema Rawat for INR 1.2 crore, banking on her ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
Additionally, the franchise secured three more players at their base price of INR 10 lakh: U-19 World Cup winner Joshitha VJ, batting all-rounder Raghvi Bist—who has since made her India debut—and Mumbai spinner Jagravi Pawar. These additions provide much-needed squad depth, particularly in the bowling department.
Player To Look Out For: Danielle Wyatt-Hodge
Wyatt-Hodge’s arrival at RCB initially seemed like a depth addition rather than a first-choice pick, given that RCB had a settled opening combination. However, with multiple withdrawals and injuries disrupting their squad, the England international is now expected to play a pivotal role. Her aggressive batting at the top of the order will be vital in setting the tempo for RCB’s innings.
Meanwhile, Ellyse Perry’s return ahead of the team’s departure for Vadodara is a relief for the franchise. Despite the uncertainty around her bowling fitness, Perry’s leadership and experience remain invaluable assets for RCB.
The Emerging Star to Watch: Raghvi Bist
Among RCB’s new acquisitions, Raghvi Bist stands out as a player to watch this season. A powerful middle-order batter who also bowls seam, she has already shown glimpses of her talent on the international stage. Bist made headlines during India A’s multi-format tour of Australia, scoring three consecutive half-centuries against Australia A and finishing as the highest run-scorer in the 50-over leg.
Her T20I debut came just days after being picked by RCB, and she made an immediate impact with a brisk unbeaten 31 in the final game of the West Indies series, forming crucial partnerships with both Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh—her future teammates. Bist’s ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed could make her a game-changer for RCB this season.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Predicted XI for WPL 2025
- Smriti Mandhana (C)
- Danielle Wyatt-Hodge
- Ellyse Perry
- S Meghana
- Raghvi Bist
- Richa Ghosh (wk)
- Georgia Wareham
- Kanika Ahuja/Shreyanka Patil
- Kim Garth
- Prema Rawat
- Renuka Thakur
Road to Title Defense: Fixtures and Key Battles
RCB is the only franchise to enjoy a complete home leg, playing four league games in familiar conditions. They kick off their title defense against Gujarat Giants in Vadodara, followed by a clash with Delhi Capitals two days later. The team then returns home for four crucial encounters before heading to Lucknow and Mumbai for their final away fixtures against UP Warriorz and Mumbai Indians.
Mandhana and her team will need to adapt quickly to their new squad dynamics. The absence of key bowlers will test their depth, but if emerging talents like Raghvi Bist and Prema Rawat can step up alongside established stars, RCB could once again mount a strong title challenge.
With a mix of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, RCB enters WPL 2025 with both challenges and opportunities. If they can overcome early setbacks and find their rhythm quickly, the reigning champions have every chance of defending their crown successfully.
Read More: Top 5 Highest Goal Scorers in ISL History: Legends of the Indian Super League
FAQs
What are the major challenges for RCB ahead of WPL 2025?
RCB faces multiple setbacks with key players like Sophie Molineux (injured), Sophie Devine (on a break), and Kate Cross (withdrawing for rehab). Additionally, spinners Shreyanka Patil and Asha Sobhana are doubtful due to long injury layoffs.
Who are RCB’s new signings for WPL 2025?
RCB secured Danielle Wyatt-Hodge via a pre-auction trade and signed Prema Rawat for INR 1.2 crore. They also added Joshitha VJ, Raghvi Bist, and Jagravi Pawar at their base price of INR 10 lakh each.
Why is Danielle Wyatt-Hodge expected to play a key role this season?
Initially considered a backup option, Wyatt-Hodge’s chances have significantly increased due to injuries and availability concerns. She is now expected to open alongside captain Smriti Mandhana.
Who is RCB’s player to watch in WPL 2025?
Raghvi Bist, a hard-hitting middle-order batter and seam bowler, is one to watch. She impressed on India A’s tour of Australia and made her T20I debut just days after being picked by RCB.
What is RCB’s schedule for WPL 2025?
RCB starts their campaign against Gujarat Giants in Vadodara and faces Delhi Capitals two days later. They then play four home games before traveling to Lucknow and Mumbai for their final away fixtures.
