Pooja Vastrakar Ruled Out of WPL 2026: Hamstring Injury Update

Navi Mumbai: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Indian pace-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar has been ruled out for at least two weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained during her training.

Pooja Vastrakar’s Injury Details

The 26-year-old cricketer last played a competitive match during the T20 World Cup in October 2024. Acquired for ₹85 lakh at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction in November last year, this season was slated to be her comeback.

Coach’s Statement on Vastrakar’s Condition

After RCB’s opening match against the Mumbai Indians, head coach Malolan Rangarajan confirmed:

"Pooja Vastrakar was not available for selection against the Mumbai Indians. Two weeks prior to her release from the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, she unfortunately tweaked her hamstring."

The coach further noted, "It’s a week-by-week process. Earlier, she was there for her shoulder; now she has a hamstring issue."

RCB’s Performance Without Vastrakar

Despite Vastrakar’s absence, RCB managed a thrilling victory against the defending champions, Mumbai Indians, winning by three wickets in a nail-biting finish. South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk played a crucial role, achieving impressive figures of 4/26 with the ball and scoring 63 runs off 44 deliveries to help chase a target of 155.

Bowling Strategy and New Recruits

In light of Vastrakar’s injury, RCB entrusted their bowling duties to new signings, including England’s left-arm spinner Linsey Smith and Arundhati Reddy. Their efforts successfully restricted Mumbai Indians to a score of 154-6.

Upcoming Matches

RCB, riding high on their recent performance, is set to face UP Warriorz Women on Monday. Meanwhile, the Mumbai Indians will compete against the Delhi Capitals on Saturday at DY Patil Stadium.

Coach’s Praise for Team Resilience

Head coach Rangarajan shared his thoughts on the team’s resilience in the face of challenges:

"The value of all-rounders came to the fore. I’ve been with RCB for six years; it’s good to be on the winning side."

He also highlighted de Klerk’s strategic approach and contribution during the match.

Injury Updates on Mumbai Indians

For the Mumbai Indians, all-rounder Hayley Matthews was also absent due to a shoulder injury. Head coach Lisa Keightley commented:

"Unfortunately, her shoulder isn’t great. She got a slight strain while training and is close to being fit."

As the WPL season unfolds, teams are keeping a close eye on player fitness and strategic gameplay amidst injury challenges.