Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were dealt with a massive blow as ace spinner Shreyanka Patil was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. Shreyanka played a significant role in RCB's title win last season and bagged the Purple Cap, taking 13 wickets. The loss of Patil was a big blow to RCB but they managed to get a strong replacement in Sneh Rana.

With Patil out, RCB has lost three top wicket-takers from the 2024 edition. Sophie Molineux and Asha Sobhana (with 12 wickets each) are also out of the third season due to injuries while all-rounder Sophie Devine pulled out of the tournament due to personal reasons. Kate Cross too pulled out of the tournament while Ellyse Perry confirmed she won't be bowling for the first phase of the league.

“We have had quite a few injuries post the auction. Some of the players who were in the XI last year are unavailable. Sophie (Devine) is one of the best all-rounders in the world, so we will definitely miss her,” Mandhana said in the captains’ meet organised by Star Sports before the season when asked about Devine’s absence. “It will be tough, but mental well-being is more important than anything. We respect that. Even other injuries… it’s tough. But we have had discussions around that. Playing for them is also something that will keep the team looking forward.”

Meanwhile, all-rounder Rana, who has previously played for Gujarat Giants (GG) in the WPL was roped in for Rs 30 Lakh. Despite the issues, RCB started the campaign off a positive note as they secured an enormous six-wicket win over the Gujarat Giants at Vadodara's Kotambi Stadium.

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