Nuzhat Parween Replaces Asha Sobhana in RCB Squad for WPL 2025

RCB Faces a Major Setback as Asha Sobhana is Ruled Out

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have announced a crucial squad change ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season. Star leg-spinner Asha Sobhana has been ruled out due to an injury, and she will be replaced by wicketkeeper-batter Nuzhat Parween. This development comes as a significant blow to RCB, as Sobhana played an instrumental role in their championship-winning campaign last season.

Asha Sobhana’s Impact in WPL 2024

Asha Sobhana was a key figure in RCB’s title-winning run during WPL 2024. The leg-spinner finished as the joint second-highest wicket-taker, securing 12 wickets in 10 matches. Her exceptional performances in the middle overs and ability to break partnerships made her a vital asset to the team.

Unfortunately, Sobhana has not recovered in time for the upcoming season, leaving RCB with a big void in their spin department. With Sophie Molineux and Kate Cross also missing out due to injuries and personal reasons, RCB has been forced to make multiple changes to their squad composition.

Who is Nuzhat Parween?

Nuzhat Parween, an experienced wicketkeeper-batter, has been brought in as a replacement for Sobhana at her base price of INR 30 lakh. Parween is known for her agility behind the stumps, quick reflexes, and solid batting skills.

• Full Name: Nuzhat Parween
• Role: Wicketkeeper-batter
• Domestic Team: Madhya Pradesh
• International Experience: Former India Women’s team player
• Strengths: Safe hands behind the stumps, adaptable batting, and strong game awareness

Her inclusion not only adds depth to RCB’s wicketkeeping options but also provides an extra batting resource for the team.

What This Means for RCB’s Squad Balance

RCB has faced a tough time with squad setbacks ahead of WPL 2025. Apart from Sobhana, the absence of experienced players like Sophie Molineux and Kate Cross has forced the franchise to rethink its strategy.

Parween’s arrival suggests that RCB is prioritizing stability in its squad, particularly in the wicketkeeping and batting department. However, her selection raises questions about how the team plans to compensate for the lack of a specialist leg-spinner in Sobhana’s absence.

With Ellyse Perry, Smriti Mandhana, and Richa Ghosh forming the backbone of the squad, Parween’s presence could provide additional flexibility, especially in case of any unexpected injuries.

RCB’s Schedule and Expectations for WPL 2025

RCB will begin their title defense against the Gujarat Giants on February 14 in Vadodara. The franchise, known for its aggressive and entertaining style of play, will look to continue its dominant form despite the early setbacks.