RCB get major boost as star Indian pacer joins the squad ahead of the WPL 2026 playoffs

India’s seam-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar has recovered from injury and rejoined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad for the rest of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 on Thursday.

Vastrakar has been away from competitive cricket since late 2024 due to a shoulder injury. She completed her recovery at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and was expected to join RCB before the start of the fourth WPL season. However, just two days before her release, she suffered a hamstring injury and had to spend more time at the CoE.

RCB welcomed her return with a message on X. “Starring in red ft. Pooja Vastrakar. Experience in her stride, strength in her run, pace in her hand, and power down the order. Back from injury and stronger than ever. 12th Man Army, welcome Pooja as she begins her next chapter in red, blue, and gold,” the 2024 champions wrote.

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When will Pooja Vastrakar return to action?

Earlier, IANS reported that Pooja Vastrakar reached Vadodara on Monday after getting clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE). She was expected to join the RCB squad after their match against the Gujarat Giants.

Pooja Vastrakar’s career and WPL record

Vastrakar was bought by RCB for ₹85 lakh in the mega auction held in New Delhi last year. She was released by defending champions Mumbai Indians before the auction.

The all-rounder has played 72 T20Is for India. She has taken 58 wickets at an economy rate of 6.39, with best figures of 4 for 13. She has also scored 332 runs in the format. In the WPL, Pooja has featured in 16 matches for the Mumbai Indians, picking up seven wickets and scoring 126 runs.