Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Malolan Rangarajan believes his franchise walked away from the WPL 2026 mega auction with exactly what they aimed for — a balanced squad anchored by the strongest bowling unit available.
The auction, as Rangarajan admitted, was far from straightforward. Late changes, including Jess Jonassen’s sudden withdrawal on the eve of the auction, forced teams to rethink their strategies on the fly. RCB were no exception, but the defending champions adapted quickly and executed their plans with clarity.
After an intense night of bidding, Rangarajan was satisfied that RCB had assembled a squad offering maximum flexibility and multiple tactical options for skipper Smriti Mandhana.
“We Knew What We Wanted” – RCB’s Clear Auction Blueprint
Speaking after the auction, Rangarajan highlighted the importance of preparation and adaptability.
“We had done a lot of work before the auction — identifying the kind of players we wanted, the style of cricket we wanted to play, and how we would operate on the field,” he explained.
RCB’s preparation paid off. Not only did they secure most of their primary targets, but they also landed one or two players they initially thought might be out of reach.
“If I’m being honest, we got almost everything we planned for — and even a couple of players we didn’t expect to,” Rangarajan said.
All-Rounders at the Core of RCB’s Strategy
One of the standout features of RCB’s WPL 2026 squad is the abundance of multi-skilled players, particularly in the bowling department.
The franchise added quality pace-bowling all-rounders in Nadine de Klerk, Pooja Vastrakar, and Arundhati Reddy, while also strengthening their spin options with Radha Yadav, Grace Harris, and Prema Rawat.
“By the second accelerated round, we had already identified our playing XI — and even our playing XII,” Rangarajan revealed.
Having financial flexibility late in the auction allowed RCB to think beyond just a fixed combination.
“That’s what all-rounders give you. Our aim was simple — pick the best bowling unit available, and we believe we’ve done that.”
Pooja Vastrakar Pick Backed by Fitness Confidence
One of RCB’s most talked-about purchases was Pooja Vastrakar, who went for ₹85 lakh despite being sidelined since October 2024 due to injury.
Rangarajan dismissed concerns over her availability, confirming that the franchise had done extensive background checks before making the move.
“The BCCI has informed us that Pooja will be ready next month. She’s in excellent hands at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is very close to bowling at full capacity.”
He stressed the impact a fully fit Vastrakar could have on RCB’s balance.
“She’s a three-skill player. A fit Pooja Vastrakar changes a lot of things for us in terms of combinations.”
No Panic Over Lack of Specialist Indian Batters
While RCB boast strong all-round depth, some have pointed out the lack of a proven frontline Indian batter beyond Smriti Mandhana. Rangarajan, however, sees it differently.
“It’s all about perception,” he said. “If we had more specialist batters, people would ask whether we have enough all-rounders. We believe our all-rounders can comfortably fill those roles.”
Gautami Naik: A Name to Watch
Among the Indian batting options, Gautami Naik has caught the coaching staff’s attention. She enjoyed an impressive Maharashtra Premier League, scoring 173 runs in six innings while opening alongside Mandhana.
“She was called for trials only by us,” Rangarajan revealed. “She’s tall, powerful, hits the ball cleanly, bowls off-spin, and is an outstanding fielder.”
Naik’s versatility makes her a valuable asset.
“She can open the batting or slot into the middle order — she’s a very exciting prospect.”
Faith in Prema Rawat’s Long-Term Potential
RCB also showed confidence in young leg-spinner Prema Rawat, exercising the Right to Match (RTM) card to bring her back for ₹20 lakh.
Despite a quiet WPL 2025, Rangarajan remains convinced about her upside.
“We were very sure of her talent from day one. What stands out is her character — she doesn’t get overawed by the stage or the dressing room.”
He believes Rawat is on the cusp of higher honours.
“She’s quick through the air, gives the ball good revs, and is among the best fielders in the country. I won’t be surprised if she features in the upcoming Sri Lanka series.”
Built for Conditions — and the Future
WPL 2026 will be played across DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai, and Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara. Rangarajan said RCB’s squad has been selected with these conditions in mind — without sacrificing long-term planning.
“DY Patil offers assistance to pacers, while Vadodara can bring spinners into play. But you can’t build a team for just one season.”
With back-to-back WPL editions scheduled in January 2026 and January 2027, RCB focused on creating a squad that can adapt anywhere.
“Our players are young, exciting, and already experienced. Several of them are World Cup winners. That balance of youth and experience is exactly what we wanted.”
Final Thoughts
RCB may be defending champions, but Malolan Rangarajan has made it clear — they are thinking beyond titles, focusing on depth, adaptability, and bowling dominance. If their plans translate onto the field, RCB could once again set the benchmark in the Women’s Premier League.
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