Sophie Devine has taken a break from cricket [Source: @RCBTweets/x.com]
Sophie Devine, the backbone of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has pulled out of the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL). The New Zealand skipper has decided to sit this one out, prioritizing her well-being after professional advice.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow for RCB fans because Devine was a key player in their 2024 title-winning campaign. Her absence leaves a massive void that RCB needs to fill before the tournament kicks off on February 15.
But cricket never stops, and neither does the hunt for talent. Let’s take a closer look at three players who could step up and replace Devine in RCB Women's squad for WPL 2025
3. Lizelle Lee
If you want fireworks at the top, Lizelle Lee is your player. The South African opener has been in red-hot form. In the WBBL 2024-25, she absolutely smashed it. Back-to-back centuries, a highest score of 150* and a strike rate of 155.85, Lee was unstoppable.
RCB loves big hitters, and pairing Lee with Smriti Mandhana could be dynamite. Lee’s aggressive approach in the powerplay can blow away any opposition. Imagine her smacking bowlers all over the park while Smriti plays the anchor. It’s the kind of opening combo that can give bowlers nightmares and fans goosebumps.
With Lee, it’s not just about runs, it’s about making a statement. She can set the stage on fire and make every game feel like a party.
2. Heather Knight
Heather Knight is the definition of cool as a cucumber. She’s experienced, versatile, and knows how to win games under pressure. The English skipper has been in fine touch lately, shining in both the WBBL and the Women’s Ashes.
In the WBBL, Knight scored 226 runs in just six matches with a strike rate of nearly 150. She also chipped in with two half-centuries. But it’s not just her batting that makes her valuable, her leadership and all-round abilities are pure gold.
Knight’s calmness can steady RCB in tight situations. She’s the kind of player who doesn’t just bat, she takes charge. Whether it’s holding the innings together or rolling her arm over for a crucial spell, Knight can do it all. She’s a captain’s dream and a game-changer RCB could really use this season.
1. Kim Garth
If pace is what RCB needs, Kim Garth is the answer. The Aussie pacer has been on fire recently and her WBBL stats back it up. She picked up 10 wickets in 9 matches at an economy of just 6.19. That’s top-class bowling.
RCB’s pace department lacks bite and Garth can bring that with her ability to swing the ball upfront and nail those yorkers at the death. She’s been impressive in the Women’s Ashes too, showing she can handle high-pressure situations.
Garth’s presence would give RCB a much-needed edge in the bowling department. She’s got the knack of breaking partnerships and keeping things tight when it matters most.
Who's The Best Fit?
Sophie Devine’s shoes are big to fill and there are no two ways about it. But with options like Lizelle Lee, Heather Knight, and Kim Garth, RCB has some exciting players to consider. Lee can bring fireworks at the top, Knight can add stability and all-round brilliance, and Garth can pack a punch with her pace.
RCB fans will be eager to see who gets the nod. Whoever it is, they will need to hit the ground running because RCB’s campaign starts against Gujarat Giants on February 15.