Pooja Vastrakar Joins RCB for WPL 2026 Playoffs | Smriti Mandhana’s Team Boosted

RCB Secure WPL 2026 Playoff Spot, Await Return of Key All-Rounder Pooja Vastrakar

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have cemented their position as a dominant force in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), securing a playoff berth in the 2026 season with a perfect 5-0 record in the league stage. Adding to the positive momentum, the team anticipates the return of star all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar, bolstering their chances for a second WPL title.

RCB’s 2026 campaign has been marked by resilience and adaptability. The team navigated the early season without Vastrakar, who was recovering from injury, demonstrating depth and tactical adaptability. “The absence of Vastrakar forced RCB into patchwork solutions,” a source close to the team explained, highlighting the initial challenges. England spinner Linsey Smith stepped up to open the bowling, while Arundhati Reddy and Lauren Bell shared new-ball duties. Nadine de Klerk also proved crucial, delivering a match-winning fifty and a rare four-wicket haul in the season opener.

Did you know? – RCB won the inaugural WPL title in 2024, defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. This year, they aim to become the first team to win back-to-back championships in the league.

Vastrakar’s journey back to fitness has been arduous. After months of rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Center of Excellence following a shoulder injury sustained in October 2024, she suffered a late hamstring tweak that initially sidelined her for at least the first two weeks of the tournament. RCB acknowledged the risk when they secured her services for Rs 85 lakh at the auction, but remained patient. Now, her return to the squad in Vadodara signals a potential turning point.

The team’s flawless run includes a commanding 61-run victory over the gujarat Giants, showcasing the contributions of Gautami Naik, who scored 73, and Sayali Satghare, who claimed 3/21. Currently leading the standings with 10 points, Smriti Mandhana’s side faces crucial upcoming matches against the Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, and UP Warriorz, offering Vastrakar the opportunity to make her WPL 2026 debut.

Pro tip – A strong powerplay with the bat and disciplined bowling in the death overs are key to success in the WPL.RCB has excelled in both areas this season.

RCB’s success hasn’t relied on a single star.The 2024 WPL champions have consistently found different match-winners, with five players earning Player of the Match (POTM) awards across their five victories. The question now is weather Vastrakar can seamlessly integrate into this winning formula and add another dimension to their already formidable lineup.

Though, RCB will be without the services of Ellyse Perry this season, as the Australian star opted out due to personal reasons. Despite this absence, the team’s depth and recent performance suggest they are well-equipped to contend for the championship.

Can Pooja Vastrakar’s return propel RCB to even greater heights in the WPL 2026 playoffs? The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to what has already been a remarkable season.

Why: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a playoff spot in the WPL 2026 season and are anticipating the return of key all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar.
Who: The key players involved are RCB, Pooja Vastrakar, Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Gautami Naik, and Sayali Satghare.
What: RCB achieved a perfect 5-0 record in the league stage, qualifying for the playoffs. Vastrakar is returning from injury and is expected to bolster the team’s chances.
How did it end?: The article doesn’t detail the end of the season, but sets the stage for the playoffs and Vastrakar’s potential impact. RCB is currently leading the standings and faces crucial matches against Delhi Capitals,Mumbai Indians,and