New Delhi,dec 10
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has analysed the strategies behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals’ (DC) auction picks, highlighting their combinations, key signings, and overall squad depth heading into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 tournament.Speaking on JioHotstar, JioStar expert Aakash Chopra expressed his thoughts on RCB’s auction picks and Pooja Vastrakar’s value. “The way RCB has collected and selected players gives them great flexibility. Based on pitch conditions, form, or injuries, they can make tactical changes, whether it’s choosing between Grace Harris or Lauren Bell, depending on the opposition. When you look at Indian fast-bowling all-rounders, Pooja Vastrakar stands out because she brings a quality of batting that others–like Renuka Singh Thakur, Shikha Pandey, Arundhati Reddy, or Kranti Gaud- do not offer at the same level.””She is a rare commodity. Yes, she has had injury concerns, but there’s only one Pooja Vastrakar in the country. That’s exactly why we saw a bidding war for her. UP Warriorz were very interested, but RCB knew what they wanted, and they secured her. In my opinion, it’s a tremendous addition.” Chopra added.The cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra also discussed the Delhi-based franchise’s bowling and leadership. He added that Jemimah Rodrigues, leading the Capitals, will be fascinating to watch in the WPL 2026 season.”Between Marizanne Kapp and Annabel Sutherland, you already have eight quality overs. We’ve spoken about Nandini Sharma, she can be the third bowling option. DC have two excellent spinners in Sneh Rana and Shree Charani, and Chinelle Henry adds strong fast-bowling support. With their overseas players, they can easily get ten overs, if not twelve,” the former Indian cricketer said.
If Nandini Sharma plays, she gives them even more pace-bowling depth. Their spin attack is already impressive. But the most interesting aspect is how Jemimah Rodrigues captains this side. We’ve seen her flourish as a player and as a strong team personality, but this is her first time leading a successful franchise.
