The Gujarat Giants have received a major setback just hours before the start of the Women’s Premier League 2026. Star wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia has been ruled out of the entire season due to a persistent knee injury.
Yastika Bhatia Sidelined
The WPL 2026 is set to begin tomorrow, with less than 24 hours to go, but Gujarat Giants’ camp has been hit hard by this news. Yastika, who was purchased for ₹50 lakh in the auction, has been injured since before the team acquired her. She had already missed the Australia series and the recent Women’s One-Day World Cup because of her knee problem. Uma Chetri had replaced her in the Indian team during that period. Unfortunately, Yastika has not recovered in time to participate in this season.
No Replacement Allowed
As per an old BCCI directive, the Gujarat Giants will not be allowed to sign a replacement for Yastika, as she was injured before the auction. Similarly, if players like Pooja Vastrakar (RCB) or Pratima Rawat (UPW) are not fit in time, their teams will also be unable to bring in substitutes.
Following the announcement, Gujarat Giants shared a heartfelt video on social media featuring several team members wishing Yastika a speedy recovery and expressing hope that she will return to play with them in future seasons.
Gujarat Giants’ Title Hunt Continues
The Gujarat Giants are yet to win a WPL title. In the previous three seasons, they finished last in the first two and third in the last season, bowing out after losing the Eliminator to Mumbai Indians Women in 2025. The team is now preparing for its fourth season, aiming for a stronger performance despite this setback.
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