RCB Strengthens Squad with Key Signings Ahead of WPL 2027
RCB Makes Strategic Additions at WPL Auction 2027
Kochi (Keralam) [India], October 28: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the reigning champions, have bolstered their roster by acquiring four new players during the WPL Auction 2027. The team signed Australian all-rounder Jess Jonassen for Rs 40 Lakhs, South African all-rounder Chloe Tryon for Rs 30 Lakhs, and Indian batters Tejal Hasabnis and Vrinda Dinesh for Rs 30 Lakhs and Rs 10 Lakhs, respectively.
Jonassen's inclusion enhances RCB's spin-bowling capabilities, while Tryon adds significant all-round talent. The recruitment of Hasabnis and Dinesh further strengthens the Indian batting lineup as RCB gears up to defend its title in the upcoming season.
Head Coach Malolan Rangarajan expressed his excitement about signing Vrinda Dinesh, stating, “I honestly didn’t expect us to secure Vrinda, so I’m thrilled to welcome a player from Karnataka. She has been performing exceptionally well for India A, and we seized the opportunity to bring her on board.”
Regarding Chloe Tryon, Rangarajan noted, “I’m delighted to have Chloe in our squad. Her extensive experience in international play and franchise leagues will be invaluable. She can bat effectively between No. 4 and No. 7 and is also a skilled left-arm spinner.”
Rangarajan emphasized the importance of having seasoned players who are familiar with the WPL environment, stating, “We now have a solid mix of experienced athletes and promising youngsters eager to represent the country. We’re very pleased to have Chloe on our team.”
He also highlighted the significance of Ellyse Perry's return, which he believes will fill a crucial gap in their batting lineup. “Perry’s comeback is monumental for us. Last year, our players did well to adapt in her absence, but having her back solidifies our batting order at number three,” he remarked.
Rangarajan pointed out a notable change in this auction, explaining, “Unlike previous years, there’s no additional purse available in this auction. Typically, the IPL or WPL sees an increment each year, but this time it’s different. We released Grace to create some budget flexibility for the auction, ensuring we remain competitive.”
Entering the auction with 13 retained players and a budget of Rs 1.15 crore, RCB strategically allocated funds to enhance their squad. The franchise successfully secured Jonassen, Tryon, Hasabnis, and Dinesh, reinforcing their spin-bowling, all-round, and batting options as they prepare for the new season.
Prior to the auction, RCB retained key players including Smriti Mandhana, Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk, Ellyse Perry, Shreyanka Patil, Sayali Satghare, Richa Ghosh, Prathyoosha Kumar, Lauren Bell, Arundhati Reddy, Pooja Vastrakar, Radha Yadav, and Prema Rawat.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru WPL Squad:
Jess Jonassen (Rs 40 Lakhs), Chloe Tryon (Rs 30 Lakhs), Tejal Hasabnis (Rs 30 Lakhs), Vrinda Dinesh (Rs 10 Lakhs), Smriti Mandhana (Captain, retained), Georgia Voll (retained), Nadine de Klerk (retained), Ellyse Perry (retained), Shreyanka Patil (retained), Sayali Satghare (retained), Richa Ghosh (retained), Prathyoosha Kumar (retained), Lauren Bell (retained), Arundhati Reddy (retained), Pooja Vastrakar (retained), Radha Yadav (retained), and Prema Rawat (retained).