In a significant development ahead of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 opener, Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) star all-rounder Ellyse Perry has withdrawn from the tournament. Despite her absence, the Australian cricketer made her presence felt by sending a heartfelt video message to her teammates and the legion of RCB fans on Friday morning.
A Familiar Voice of Support from Afar
The 2024 WPL champions, RCB, shared Perry's video message on their official Instagram account. The franchise captioned the post, "A familiar voice wishing strength and support. Perry sends her love and luck to the squad for the WPL 2026 season ahead." In the clip, Perry addressed her direct connection with the team and its supporters, built over her three-year association with RCB.
Perry cited personal reasons for her sudden withdrawal from the high-profile league. Her absence marks the end of a remarkable run of consistent performances in the WPL. The franchise had retained her for a significant sum of Rs 2 crore ahead of the current season, underscoring her value to the side.
Perry's Stellar WPL Legacy and Record
Ellyse Perry's impact on the Women's Premier League has been nothing short of phenomenal. Across the three seasons of the tournament, she has amassed a total of 972 runs. Her most dominant performance came in the 2024 edition, where she clinched the prestigious Orange Cap for being the highest run-scorer. That season, she piled on 347 runs at an astonishing average of 69.40.
Her contributions were not limited to batting. With the ball, Perry has taken 14 wickets in the WPL. She also holds the league's record for the best bowling figures, an incredible 6 wickets for 15 runs, achieved against the Mumbai Indians. This all-round prowess made her a cornerstone of the RCB lineup, contributing crucially in the middle order and providing timely breakthroughs with her bowling.
Message to the RCB Bold Army
In her video message, Perry directly spoke to her teammates and the passionate "RCB Bold" fanbase. She expressed her regret at not being present but promised unwavering support from her home. "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.
She also urged the fans to continue their loud support for the team throughout the WPL 2026 season. RCB's campaign begins with a high-voltage clash against the Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium.
The team and its management will now have to strategize to fill the void left by one of the world's premier all-rounders. Fans and analysts will be keenly watching how RCB adapts to this challenge as they defend their title in the upcoming matches.
