India’s seam bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar has recovered from a shoulder injury and has rejoined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad for the ongoing Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. Vastrakar had been sidelined from competitive play since late 2024 due to the injury and underwent rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Despite initially planning to join RCB before the WPL’s fourth edition, Vastrakar faced a setback with a hamstring injury just before her release, requiring additional time at the Centre of Excellence. The 2024 champions, RCB, welcomed Vastrakar back from injury, highlighting her skills and resilience in a recent statement.
Having arrived in Vadodara after receiving clearance from the Centre of Excellence, Vastrakar was set to link up with RCB following their match against Gujarat Giants. The franchise had acquired Vastrakar for Rs 85 lakh in the previous year’s mega auction after she was released by Mumbai Indians.
Vastrakar, a seasoned player with 72 T20Is for India, boasts 58 wickets at an economy rate of 6.39 and has contributed 332 runs with the bat in T20Is. In the WPL, she has played 16 matches for Mumbai Indians, securing seven wickets and scoring 126 runs. Her return is expected to bolster RCB’s performance in the ongoing WPL.
RCB, led by Smriti Mandhana, remains unbeaten in the WPL 2026, securing a spot in the playoffs with five consecutive victories. The team is scheduled to face the Delhi Capitals next at BCA Stadium.
