Ellyse Perry skips WPL despite RCB retention, fans express anger over commitment row

RCB all-rounder Ellyse Perry faces backlash from fans after opting out of WPL Season 4 citing personal reasons, while continuing to play other international leagues despite being retained for ₹2 crore.

Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry, widely regarded as one of the biggest attractions of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), is facing sharp criticism from cricket fans after opting out of WPL Season 4, despite being retained by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Perry, often called the “beauty queen” of the WPL for her performance and presence on the field, was expected to play a key role for RCB this season. Fans had been eagerly waiting to watch her in action. However, she decided not to travel to India, leaving supporters deeply disappointed.

According to franchise sources, RCB had shown complete faith in Perry ahead of the auction. The franchise retained her after she reportedly assured availability for the season. Based on this understanding, RCB chose not to release her and credited ₹2 crore to her account as part of the retention deal.

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Ahead of the tournament, Perry informed the franchise that she would not be available for WPL Season 4, citing personal reasons. This unexpected decision shocked both RCB management and fans, who believed she would continue representing the Bengaluru-based team.

The situation escalated when Perry went on to participate in multiple overseas tournaments, including Australia’s Big Bash League, New Zealand’s Women’s Super Smash T20, and the Women’s National Cricket League. This development intensified criticism, with fans questioning why she skipped the WPL but continued to play other leagues.

RCB has since named Indian pacer Sayali Satghare as Perry’s replacement. The 25-year-old has impressed with strong performances, strengthening speculation that the franchise may continue with her in future seasons. Perry, who will turn 36 next year, has also been dealing with injury and fitness concerns.

With uncertainty surrounding her availability and age, questions are now being raised about whether Perry will return for WPL Season 5. While her decision is termed personal, fans argue that accepting a large retention fee and missing the league while playing elsewhere is unfair.

Sports Bureau

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