WPL 2026: 3 players RCB could have picked instead of Radha Yadav

Despite having a strong squad at the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, RCB’s decision to rope in Radha Yadav for INR 65 lakh has grabbed immense attention, especially considering the other gaps in their lineup. The franchise has signed Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk, and Lauren Bell. However, the middle-order still looks thin due to the absence of a reliable Indian batter to bridge the innings. RCB missed the chance to strengthen where it mattered most.

While Radha is a World Cup winner and an experienced spinner, RCB already had depth in their overseas bowling firepower with Bell, Smith, and de Klerk. Instead, the Mandhana-led team could have prioritised a stable Indian batter, especially after inconsistent seasons from Hemalatha and the untested Gautami Naik. 

Here are 3 players RCB W should have picked instead of Radha Yadav

 3. Shree Charani

Shree Charani is one player RCB will regret not pursuing at the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, especially after opting for Radha Yadav at INR 65 lakh. The ICC Women’s World Cup winner was one of the biggest names at the auction, eventually being secured by Delhi Capitals for a massive INR 1.3 crore after a bidding war with UP Warriorz.

Charani, who was uncapped before WPL 2025, impressed in her debut season with DC and then became a crucial part of India’s World Cup win, taking 14 wickets. Her ability to deliver under pressure makes her one of the most valuable left-arm spinners in the country.

2. Sophie Ecclestone

England’s ace left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone is exactly the kind of impact player Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women should have targeted instead of Radha Yadav at the WPL 2026 auction. While UP Warriorz smartly used their RTM card to retain her for just INR 85 lakh, RCB missed a golden opportunity to strengthen a weak spin attack.

Ecclestone has so far picked 36 wickets in 25 WPL matches at an economy of 6.68, making her the tournament’s third-highest wicket-taker. Moreover, Ecclestone’s lower-order batting could be something RCB have lacked. 

1. Sneh Rana

India all-rounder Sneh Rana was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for INR 50 lakh at the WPL 2026 Auction. However, her former franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, might look back and wonder if releasing her and not attempting a re-buy was another misstep in their auction.

Rana had a quiet WPL 2025 season with RCB, but her overall performance has been decent as she has bagged 12 wickets in 17 WPL matches, has captaincy experience with Gujarat Giants, and was recently part of India’s 2025 ODI World Cup winning squad. Given her ability to deliver with the ball and contribute handy runs, RCB, who needed a reliable Indian all-rounder more than a like-for-like spin option such as Radha Yadav, missed out on the opportunity.