In a major blow to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), their pace bowler Pooja Vastrakar will be sidelined for two weeks owing to a hamstring injury. The injury news comes shortly after RCB’s thrilling last-ball victory against Mumbai Indians in the opening match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026.
RCB head coach Malolan Rangarajan confirmed Pooja’s unavailability for selection. Speaking to the media after the Mumbai Indians match, he said, “Pooja Vastrakar is currently undergoing rehabilitation with BCCI and has sustained a hamstring injury. She will be out of action for two weeks.”
Pooja was recovering through the BCCI’s Cricket Excellence programme after the auction, with hopes of being match-fit for the league’s start. Unfortunately, she suffered the injury just before the final squad announcements, delaying her much-anticipated return.
The right-arm fast bowler had been part of the Mumbai Indians squad for the last three seasons. In the recent WPL 2026 auction, RCB acquired her for ₹85 lakh, valuing her as a key player for team balance. Besides her pace bowling, Pooja is also a capable lower-order batter.
Looking at her T20 credentials, Pooja has represented India in 72 international T20 matches, claiming 58 wickets and scoring 332 runs in 43 innings. In the IPL, she has played 16 matches, scoring 126 runs and taking 7 wickets.
Her injury is a setback not only for RCB but also for fans who were eagerly waiting for her comeback after a long injury hiatus. The hamstring strain means her return to competitive cricket will be delayed further, impacting RCB’s bowling options in the initial phase of the tournament.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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