WPL 2025: Huge setback for RCB as star all-rounder takes break from cricket with immediate effect

Following Sophie Molineux's absence from the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) encountered another challenge as star all-rounder Sophie Devine opted to take a break from cricket to focus on her mental health.

The 35-year-old Devine will miss the remainder of the current Super Smash season with Wellington in addition to the WPL 2025. She made this choice after consulting a professional. The New Zealand star's replacement has not yet been confirmed by RCB.

“Player well-being is paramount to us – it takes precedence over everything else,” NZC’s Head of Women’s High-Performance Development, Liz Green said.

"Sophie’s had excellent support from the New Zealand Cricket Players Association and our high-performance unit staff, and everyone agrees this is the best option available. 

“The most important thing for NZC is that Sophie has a decent break, receives good support and care, and is fit and well before returning to professional cricket,” added Green.

Sophie Devine has emerged as a prominent figure in New Zealand women's cricket, particularly for leading the team to their first-ever women's T20 World Cup victory last year.

Over her two seasons with RCB, Devine participated in 18 matches, accumulating 402 runs and taking nine wickets. She came agonizingly close to scoring a century against the Gujarat Giants, falling just one run short in the 2023 season. Despite encountering difficulties in the 2024 season, Devine was instrumental in RCB's title win.

As they gear up for the upcoming WPL 2025, RCB has announced the signing of England's Charlie Dean to replace the injured Australian player Sophie Molineux. The tournament is scheduled to begin on February 14 and will wrap up on March 15.

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