WPL 2026: Big Blow for RCB as Pooja Vastrakar Set to Miss Early Games Due to Fresh Hamstring Injury
Pooja Vastrakar will miss the first two weeks of WPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury, delaying her comeback for RCB.
India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar will miss at least the first two weeks of the Women’s Premier League 2026 after picking up a hamstring injury just days before the season began.
The injury happened at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, only two days before she was expected to be cleared and released to join her WPL side. This fresh setback has delayed her much-awaited return to competitive cricket.
Vastrakar was already at the CoE for rehabilitation following shoulder surgery in 2024. She has not played a competitive match since October 2024 and WPL 2026 was meant to mark her full comeback after a long recovery phase.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who signed her for ₹85 lakh at the WPL auction, had identified her as a key all-round option. Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball was seen as crucial for team balance this season.
Because of the injury, Vastrakar was unavailable for selection in RCB’s season opener against Mumbai Indians. She is also set to miss the next few matches in the early part of the tournament.
The RCB coaching staff confirmed that her return will be handled carefully. The team described it as a “week-by-week process”, with her workload and recovery to be monitored closely before any decision is made on her comeback.
Despite her absence, Royal Challengers Bengaluru made a strong start to their campaign. They defeated Mumbai Indians in their opening match, showing good depth in the squad.
South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk stepped up in the opener and delivered a match-winning performance, easing some of the pressure created by Vastrakar’s absence.
Injuries have been an unfortunate theme in Vastrakar’s career. In the past, she has dealt with serious issues including ACL and knee injuries, which have forced her to miss several major tournaments.
For now, RCB will hope for steady progress in her recovery and aim to have her available later in the season. A fit Pooja Vastrakar could still play an important role as the WPL 2026 moves into its business end.
