Australia all-rounder and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) player Ellyse Perry made her presence felt ahead of the team’s opening match of WPL 2026 against Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium, despite pulling out of the tournament. Perry, who has withdrawn citing personal reasons, shared a video message for the team and fans on Friday morning.
The 2024 WPL champions RCB posted the video on Instagram with the caption, "A familiar voice wishing strength and support. Perry sends her love and luck to the squad for the WPL 2026 season ahead."
In the video, Perry addressed her teammates and the "RCB Bold" fanbase, highlighting the connection she has built with the franchise and the city over the past three years.
Though she will not take part in the matches, Perry said she would follow the tournament from home and support the team. She also asked fans to back the side through the season.
“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 in RCB's Instagram post.
Perry’s absence from WPL 2026 ends a run of consistent performances in the league. She was retained by RCB for Rs 2 crore ahead of the season. Across three WPL seasons, she has scored 972 runs.
In the 2024 edition, Perry won the Orange Cap after scoring 347 runs at an average of 69.40. She has taken 14 wickets in the league and holds the record for the best bowling figures in WPL history, 6/15 against Mumbai Indians. Perry has played a key role for RCB with both bat and ball, contributing in the middle order and with timely wickets.
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