Royal Challengers Bengaluru head into IPL 2026 with confidence and clarity after a measured mini-auction that focused on strengthening an already settled core. Fresh off their maiden IPL triumph, the Rajat
Patidar-led side avoided flashy moves and instead prioritised balance, depth and flexibility as they look to defend their title.
RCB entered the auction with ₹16.40 crore in their purse after retaining 17 players, and their approach reflected careful planning. Out of the 10 bids they placed, eight were successful, showing how targeted their strategy was.
The biggest headline grabber was the acquisition of Venkatesh Iyer for ₹7 crore, making him RCB's most expensive buy at the auction. After missing out on him last year following a bidding duel with Kolkata Knight Riders, RCB finally managed to land the all-rounder this time around.
Iyer's inclusion adds a valuable left-handed option to the top and middle order, along with a handy medium-pace bowling option. His versatility makes him a strong contender for a key role in RCB's best XI, particularly on Indian surfaces where balance is crucial.
Another notable investment was uncapped youngster Mangesh Yadav, who attracted a significant portion of RCB's remaining budget. The 23-year-old from Madhya Pradesh recently made his senior debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and showed promise with both bat and ball, underlining RCB's willingness to back emerging Indian talent. Alongside him, the franchise added names like Jacob Duffy, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, Vihaan Malhotra, Vicky Ostwal and Satvik Deswal to improve squad depth across departments.
Despite these additions, RCB's strongest XI is expected to look largely familiar. The core that delivered the title last season remains intact, providing stability and continuity. Venkatesh Iyer is likely to slot into the all-rounder's role, while Mangesh Yadav could be groomed as a future option rather than an immediate starter.
With a balanced mix of proven performers, flexible all-rounders and promising youngsters, RCB appear well-equipped to mount a serious title defence. If their key players stay fit and the new signings integrate smoothly, Bengaluru could once again be a formidable force in IPL 2026.
RCB XI: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood.
