Shreyanka Patil Eagerly Awaits WPL 2026, Energized by RCB Support

When Shreyanka Patil stepped onto the field for the Barbados Royals in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) last September, it was as if she was beginning her cricket career anew.

Her participation in the WCPL followed a challenging 11-month hiatus due to injury. Upon her return to competitive play, Shreyanka embraced a fresh start. “I was thrilled when I bowled my first ball. I thought, ‘I’m okay now.’ My nerves settled,” she shared during a virtual media session on Wednesday.

The lengthy break, though difficult, provided Shreyanka the opportunity to learn from top cricketers. During her rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE), the 23-year-old engaged with players like Suryakumar Yadav, Riyan Parag, and Mayank Yadav.

She also interacted with Jasprit Bumrah, who offered advice on managing injuries and bowling in the death overs.

“I wanted to ask him about practicing yorkers—whether to bowl to hard hitters or just focus on precision,” Shreyanka recounted. “He provided insightful answers and reassured me that everyone experiences setbacks similar to mine,” she added.

Bumrah advised Shreyanka not to resist the recovery process but to approach it with acceptance. “That was invaluable advice, considering his own experiences with injuries,” Shreyanka noted.

Grateful for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) retaining her for the upcoming Women’s Premier League starting on Friday, Shreyanka was emotional after receiving the news from RCB coach Malolan Rangarajan. “Malolan sir called to say, ‘Patil, you have been retained.’ I was speechless, overwhelmed by their faith in someone who hadn’t played for over a year,” she explained.

After the conversation with Malolan, Shreyanka called her coach Arjun Dev to express her emotions. “I called Arjun sir and started crying… I felt immense love and support—a truly heartwarming moment,” Shreyanka shared.

Published on January 7, 2026.