Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 As a blockbuster is set to debut Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Be prepared to face the defending champions, Mumbai IndiansOn January 9, 2026. While the atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium is spectacular, RCB fans are struggling with the significant absence of their supergirl, elise perryWho have withdrawn their names from the tournament.
Perry, the cornerstone of RCB’s 2024 title win and the all-time leading run-scorer for the franchise in the league, will be missing from the field for the first time in WPL history. Despite his physical absence, the Australian legend made sure his presence was felt through a heartfelt video message shared by the team on social media. Their encouragement comes at a crucial time Smriti Mandhanaside, who are looking to reclaim the throne they held two seasons ago.
Ellyse Perry’s heartfelt message to RCB ahead of WPL 2026 opener vs Mumbai Indians
In a touching tribute shared on Instagram, RCB posted a video of Ellyse Perry with the caption: โ๐ ๐ณ๐ฎ๐บ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐ฎ๐ฟ Ellyse Perry sends her love and best wishes to the team for the #WPL2026 season. The video features Perry speaking directly to his teammates and the loyal “RCB Bold” fanbase, reinforcing the bond he has built with the city over the past three years.
Even when she is based in Australia, her commitment to the franchise’s success remains unwavering, as she urged players to embrace the unique energy of the WPL and the unwavering support of their followers. His message was a mixture of professional encouragement and personal warmth, designed to boost the morale of the team, who would now have to find a way to replace his huge contributions with both bat and ball.
“Hey team, good luck tonight and the entire WPL. I hope you guys have a great time. You have the best fans in the world and I’m sure they’ll be there cheering for you, as I will from home. Go on, have a great time.” Perry said.
Here is the video:
Also read: WPL 2026 Opening Ceremony: Date, Time, Artists and Live Streaming Details
Perry’s WPL legacy and visit to Royal Challengers Bangalore
Perry’s withdrawal from WPL 2026 due to personal reasons marks the end of an era of unprecedented continuity in the tournament. Perry was retained by RCB ahead of the season for a hefty sum of โน2 crore, a testament to his status as the league’s best all-rounder. Her record is nothing short of great: she was the Orange Cap winner in 2024, scoring 347 runs at an average of 69.40, including a crucial half-century in the eliminator. Mumbai Indians,
Overall, Perry tops the charts for RCB with 972 runs in three seasons and holds the record for the best bowling figures in WPL history with a devastating performance of 6/15 against Mumbai. His ability to handle the middle order and provide crucial breakthroughs with his medium pace made him the ‘MVP’ of the RCB setup, and his absence leaves a statistical and leadership void that will be difficult to fill.
Historically, RCB’s performances in the WPL have been a roller coaster of emotions, reflecting the high-stakes nature of the franchise. After a disappointing inaugural season in 2023, where they finished fourth out of five teams, they made a spectacular comeback in 2024 to win their first title by defeating Delhi Capitals in a tense final. However, the 2025 season saw them again struggle with consistency, finishing fourth and missing out on the qualifiers.
Heading into 2026, RCB have a head-to-head record of 3 wins and 4 losses against Mumbai Indians, making tonight’s opener an important encounter. Without Perry’s career batting average of 50+ and the ability to perform in big games, the pressure weighs heavily on the captain Smriti Mandhana and explosives Richa GhoshAs they begin their fourth campaign, RCB will have to prove that they can convert their huge social media following of over 21 million into on-field results even without their most decorated superstar,
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
