Royal Challengers Bengaluru enters the 2026 mini-auction after winning their maiden IPL title in 2025. With a strong core and a clear idea of what worked last season, the defending champions have taken
a mature approach towards their retentions and releases this year. However, many fans are still wondering whether RCB made the right calls, or were there mistakes in their retention strategy?
RCB’s roadmap to their first IPL trophy was guided by powerful performance and well-defined roles. Virat Kohli’s performance at the top, Phil Salt’s impact as an opener, Rajat Patidar’s leadership, and the strong contributions from Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, and Suyash Sharma led to their breakthrough season. With this winning formula in place, the franchise retained 17 players, the majority of whom played important roles in the title run, and now enter the auction with INR 16.4 crore to fill eight available slots, including two overseas positions. This approach is different from their earlier habit of reshuffling squads frequently after disappointing seasons.
Their list of releases is small but important as they move to a new edition. The biggest name to be let go is Liam Livingstone, bought for INR 8.75 crore, who couldn't justify his price tag, scoring only 110 runs in 12 games. His inconsistent form, along with the performances of more reliable middle-order options like Tim David and Jitesh Sharma, led to his release. Pacer Lungi Ngidi is another notable exit, although his exit was expected as RCB looks for a more lethal overseas pacer who can complement Hazlewood. The team also let go of Indian pacer Rasikh Salam Dar, who, despite being bought for INR 6 crore, featured only twice in the season.
In uncapped releases, Manoj Bhandage, Mohit Rathee, and Swastik Chikara were expected departures. Their limited impact and RCB’s plan on building a stable core meant they did not fit into the franchise’s long-term vision. Collectively, the releases open up precious purse space, allowing the franchise to target very specific roles without compromising the balance of the squad.
RCB to fill eight more slots in their squad
Heading into the mini-auction, RCB’s primary requirement is an overseas fast-bowling backup for Hazlewood. With the Australian pacer likely to have a heavy international workload with the Ashes and T20 World Cup back-to-back, RCB need a quality quick who can support him well. Rather than spending big on star names like Matheesha Pathirana, the franchise may look toward smart, cost-efficient picks such as Reece Topley, Gerald Coetzee, or Matt Henry. Their second major need is a wicket-taking spinner.
While Suyash had a breakout season, RCB lacked a specialist who could pick wickets consistently in the middle overs. This puts Wanindu Hasaranga and Ravi Bishnoi high on their wishlist, with Indian alternatives like Rahul Chahar, Kumar Kartikeya, and Karn Sharma also under consideration. Indian pace attack is another priority. With Rasikh gone, RCB need reliable rotational options. Names like Akash Deep, who previously played for the franchise, and experienced specialist Mohit Sharma stand out as strong fits. In the batting department, RCB are in search of a backup Indian top-order option. Venkatesh Iyer may be too expensive, making Prithvi Shaw or the Shaik Rasheed more realistic targets. Additionally, Mahipal Lomror could be another fit for the lower middle order.
Conclusion
Evaluating RCB after the retention window, the franchise has made smart decisions. Having let go of players who might not be of much use this season, the defending champions are in search of those who can add more balance and strengthen their squad.
Players released
Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, Mayank Agarwal, Manoj Bhandage, Swastik Chikara, Mohit Rathee
Players retained
Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Jitesh Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Bethell, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Dar, Swapnil Singh
Purse remaining
INR 16.40 crore
Slots remaining
8 (2 overseas)
