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The is set for a blockbuster beginning as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare to face the defending champions, Mumbai Indians, on January 9, 2026. While the atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium is electric, RCB fans are grappling with the significant absence of their Supergirl, Ellyse Perry, who has withdrawn from the tournament.
Perry, the cornerstone of RCB’s 2024 title win and the league’s all-time leading run-scorer for the franchise, will be missing from the field for the first time in WPL history. Despite her physical absence, the Australian legend made sure her presence was felt through a heartfelt video message shared by the team on social media. Her encouragement comes at a vital time for Smriti Mandhana‘s side, 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 moving tribute shared on Instagram, RCB posted a video of Ellyse Perry with the caption: “𝗔 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗿 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁. Ellyse Perry sends her love and luck to the squad for the #WPL2026 season ahead.” The video captures Perry speaking directly to her teammates and the loyal “RCB Bold” fanbase, reinforcing the bond she has built with the city over the last three years.
Even as she remains in Australia, her commitment to the franchise’s success remains unshaken, as she urged the players to embrace the unique energy of the WPL and the unwavering support of their followers. Her message was a blend of professional encouragement and personal warmth, designed to boost the morale of a squad that must now find a way to replace her massive contributions with both bat and ball.
“Hey team, all the very best tonight and for all of the WPL. I hope you guys have a great time. You’ve got the best fans in the world and I’m sure they’ll be there cheering you on as will I from home. Go well, have a great time.” Perry said.
Here’s the video:
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Perry’s WPL legacy and Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s journey
Perry’s withdrawal from WPL 2026 due to personal reasons marks the end of an era of unprecedented consistency in the tournament. Perry was retained by RCB for a staggering ₹2 crore ahead of the season, a testament to her status as the league’s ultimate all-rounder. Her record is nothing short of legendary: she was the Orange Cap winner in 2024, scoring 347 runs at an average of 69.40, including a vital half-century in the eliminator against Mumbai Indians.
Overall, Perry sits at the top of RCB’s charts with 972 runs across three seasons and holds the record for the best-ever bowling figures in WPL history with her devastating 6/15 against Mumbai. Her ability to anchor the middle order and provide crucial breakthroughs with her medium pace made her the ‘MVP’ of the RCB setup, and her absence leaves a statistical and leadership vacuum that will be difficult to fill.
Historically, RCB’s performance in the WPL has 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 scripted a fairytale comeback in 2024 to win their maiden title, defeating Delhi Capitals in a tense final. However, the 2025 season saw them struggle with consistency again, finishing fourth and missing out on the qualifiers.
Heading into 2026, RCB holds a head-to-head record of 3 wins and 4 losses against Mumbai Indians, making tonight’s opener a critical grudge match. Without Perry’s career batting average of 50+ and her knack for performing in big games, the pressure shifts heavily onto captain Smriti Mandhana and the explosive. As they begin their fourth campaign, RCB must prove they can translate their massive social media following of 21 million+ into on-field results without their most decorated superstar.
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This article was first published at , a Cricket Times company.
