The desert winds are blowing differently in Jaipur. Rajasthan Royals, one of the IPL's most instinctive and quietly daring franchises, have walked into the IPL 2026 season with a squad that reflects both
ambition and calculated risk.
After a dramatic trading window and a focused retention strategy, RR are clearly signalling a fresh chapter-one built around youth, flexibility and match-winners across conditions.
IPL 2026 has already delivered its share of shocks, and Rajasthan Royals have been right at the heart of the conversation. The headline-grabbing trade of captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings raised eyebrows across the cricketing world, but RR responded by reinforcing their middle with experience, versatility and leadership options. Trading in Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran instantly altered the balance of the side, giving the Royals two proven, multi-dimensional performers who thrive under pressure.
As the mini-auction dust settles in Abu Dhabi, Rajasthan Royals find themselves with a modest purse but a strong foundation. With ₹16.05 crore left to fill nine slots, the Royals' approach is expected to be sharp rather than flashy-plugging gaps, backing Indian depth and adding a specialist wrist-spinner who can turn games on slow surfaces.
Core Strength Retained: Youth Meets Experience
Rajasthan Royals have doubled down on their belief in Indian talent, retaining a group that blends explosive batting, emerging all-round ability and domestic consistency. Yashasvi Jaiswal remains the crown jewel at the top, having already established himself as one of the most feared openers in the league. Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel continue to represent the franchise's long-term vision, while Shubham Dubey adds finishing firepower.
The bowling unit retains its Indian spine too. Sandeep Sharma's reliability at the death, Tushar Deshpande's pace variations and Yudhvir Singh Charak's athleticism ensure depth, while young Vaibhav Suryavanshi remains a project player with immense upside.
Overseas, RR have held on to impact performers who suit Indian conditions. Shimron Hetmyer's brute force in the middle overs, Jofra Archer's express pace, and the South African trio of Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger and Lhuan-dre Pretorius give the Royals genuine fast-bowling teeth.
RR Retained Players List (IPL 2026)
Indian Players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande
Overseas Players: Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies), Jofra Archer (England), Kwena Maphaka (South Africa), Nandre Burger (South Africa), Lhuan-dre Pretorius (South Africa)
Big Trades, Bigger Statements
The biggest storyline of RR's pre-auction manoeuvring was undoubtedly the decision to trade Sanju Samson to CSK. While letting go of a long-time captain was emotionally charged, Rajasthan Royals ensured they received quality in return. Ravindra Jadeja arrives as a seasoned campaigner with championship pedigree, while Sam Curran adds left-arm pace, batting depth and tactical flexibility. Donovan Ferreira, traded in from Delhi Capitals, brings power-hitting and wicketkeeping cover.
These trades suggest RR are building a squad that can adapt quickly-across venues, pitches and match situations-rather than relying on a fixed XI.
RR IPL 2026 Purse & Auction Strategy
Despite the big names already secured, Rajasthan Royals head into the IPL 2026 mini-auction with a remaining purse of ₹16.05 crore. They need to fill nine slots, including one overseas player, which leaves little room for extravagant bidding wars.
The Royals' shopping list is clear. A quality wristspinner remains the top priority, with names like Ravi Bishnoi and Rahul Chahar fitting the bill perfectly. Batting depth is another focus area, and Indian middle-order batters such as Sarfaraz Khan could become realistic targets if the price stays sensible.
Rajasthan Royals Retained Players
| Player | Salary (₹) |
|---|---|
| Dhruv Jurel | 14 cr |
| Jofra Archer | 12.5 cr |
| Kwena Maphaka | 1.5 cr |
| Lhuan-dre Pretorius | 30 L |
| Nandre Burger | 3.5 cr |
| Riyan Parag | 14 cr |
| Sandeep Sharma | 4 cr |
| Shimron Hetmyer | 11 cr |
| Shubham Dubey | 80 L |
| Tushar Deshpande | 6.5 cr |
| Vaibhav Sooryavanshi | 1.1 cr |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | 18 cr |
| Yudhvir Singh | 35 L |
Traded Players
| Player | Salary (₹) |
|---|---|
| Donovan Ferreira | 1 cr |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 14 cr |
| Sam Curran | 2.4 cr |
Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 Buys with Price
| Player | Base Price (₹) | Final Bid (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Ravi Bishnoi | 2 cr | 7.2 cr |
| Sushant Mishra | 30 L | 90 L |
| Yash Raj Punja | 30 L | 30 L |
| Vignesh Puthur | 30 L | 30 L |
| Ravi Singh | 30 L | 95 L |
| Aman Rao Perala | 30 L | 30 L |
| Brijesh Sharma | 30 L | 30 L |
| Adam Milne | 2 cr | 2.4 cr |
| Kuldeep Sen | 75 L | 75 L |
