IPL 2026: RCB to release Liam Livingstone?

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ended their long IPL trophy drought in 2025, lifting the title and delighting fans after an 18-season-long wait.

While their campaign was largely successful, there were issues in the middle-order, where England all-rounder Liam Livingstone struggled to make a consistent impact.

The right-handed batter is often unable to accelerate the scoring or stabilize innings when required, and his performances fell short of expectations. Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, RCB could consider releasing him and exploring alternatives who can provide better balance to the side, given that they would be willing to defend their title in the upcoming season.

Here are 3 replacements options for Liam Livingstone in RCB ahead of IPL 2026 auctions

3. Saransh Jain (India)

Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain could be an ideal domestic replacement. Jain has been impressive in domestic cricket, including the Irani Cup, Ranji Trophy, and Duleep Trophy. He is known for his ability to score quick runs in the lower-middle order, and can boost RCB’s scoring rate during crucial middle and death overs.

Additionally, his right-arm spin can provide control and crucial breakthroughs, helping restrict opposition runs, as the Bengaluru-based franchise hasn't managed to find a good right-arm spinner ever since Yuzvendra Chahal's departure. Jain’s capability to stay long in the crease and guide innings adds depth to RCB’s batting line-up.

2. Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)

Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza offers a like-for-like replacement for Livingstone with his wealth of experience in shorter formats. Ranked among the top ODI all-rounders, Raza has been instrumental in Zimbabwe’s rise on the international stage. He also has an abundance of experience, playing in franchise cricket leagues across the globe.

His ability to play aggressive innings while also contributing with the ball makes him a valuable asset. Raza’s experience and adaptability can strengthen RCB’s middle order and provide an additional bowling option, making him a strategic pick for IPL 2026. Given that a line-up can have only four overseas players, a name like Raza certainly fits the bill.

1. Gudakesh Motie (West Indies)

West Indies left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie is another promising option. With extensive experience in franchise cricket and international formats, Motie’s ability to pick wickets in the middle overs can help RCB control the flow of runs.

Additionally, his batting skills allow him to contribute crucial runs during the death overs. Motie’s versatility and adaptability to Indian conditions make him a reliable choice for the Bengaluru-based franchise to strengthen both their bowling and lower middle-order batting.