Australian star all-rounder Ellyse Perry will not be part of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 season. Her absence is a major setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women, as Perry was one of the key players behind the team’s title-winning campaign last season.
The decision was officially confirmed at the end of December 2025, just before WPL 2026 squad finalisation. Perry herself chose to withdraw, and the franchise respected her call.
Why Ellyse Perry Is Not Playing WPL 2026
The main reason behind Ellyse Perry’s absence from WPL 2026 is personal reasons. While no detailed explanation has been made public, both the player and the franchise have clarified that it is not related to form or team selection.
Cricket Australia has also supported her decision, indicating that it could be linked to personal commitments, workload management, or family matters. Perry has been playing international cricket continuously for several years, and such breaks are common for elite players.
RCB had retained Perry ahead of the season, but after her withdrawal, the team was forced to look for replacements and adjust its balance.
How Perry’s Absence Affects RCB in WPL 2026
Ellyse Perry’s absence impacts RCB in more than one way:
- She was RCB’s most reliable middle-order batter
- She provided control with the ball in pressure overs
- Her experience played a big role in guiding younger players
Without Perry, RCB now depends more on Indian all-rounders and overseas replacements to fill the gap. The team management has indicated a shift in strategy, focusing on squad depth rather than a single star.
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Ellyse Perry WPL Career Stats (2023–2025)
Despite playing only three seasons, Perry built an outstanding record in the league.
| Category | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Matches | 26 |
| Batting Innings | 24 |
| Runs | 679 |
| Batting Average | 45.26 |
| Strike Rate | 128.45 |
| Highest Score | 81 |
| Half-Centuries | 5 |
| Wickets | 18 |
| Bowling Average | 28.50 |
| Economy Rate | 6.58 |
| Best Bowling | 3/18 |
Major Records and Achievements in WPL
Ellyse Perry’s WPL journey includes several notable achievements:
- Orange Cap winner (2024) – highest run scorer of the season
- One of the top run-scoring overseas players in WPL history
- Played a crucial role in RCB first WPL title win
- Known for match-winning knocks under pressure
- Consistent performer across all three seasons she played
In the 2024 season alone, Perry scored heavily and also chipped in with key wickets, proving her value as a complete all-rounder.
Also see: MI vs RCB WPL Head to Head Record
Will Ellyse Perry Return to WPL in the Future?
As of now, there is no retirement announcement from Ellyse Perry regarding the WPL. Her decision to skip WPL 2026 appears temporary, and fans are hopeful of seeing her return in future seasons if circumstances allow.
Both RCB and WPL officials have kept the door open for her comeback.
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So, for fans searching why Ellyse Perry is not playing WPL 2026, the answer is simple: It is a personal decision, fully supported by her franchise and cricket board.
