Rajasthan Royals The side endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing ninth on the points table with only eight points from 14 matches. They avoided the wooden spoon only because of their better net run rate than Chennai Super Kings. With an eye on rebuilding, RR entered the IPL 2026 auction with Rs 16.05 crore in their purse and nine vacant slots, including just one overseas venue.
Ahead of the auction, the 2008 champions made a bold move by buying wicketkeeper-batsman Donovan Ferreira as well as experienced all-rounders Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja. In the auction, Rajasthan Royals' biggest investment was in Indian leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was bought for Rs 7.2 crore after being ignored by several franchises.
Their only overseas vacancy was filled by New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne. RR also added a number of Indian domestic players, including Sushant Mishra, Yashraj Punja, Vignesh Puthur, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao, Brijesh Sharma and Kuldeep Sen, indicating a clear focus on youth and long-term planning.
Strength
Rajasthan Royals have one of the most fearless and aggressive young batsmen in the league. His approach is based on intent, regardless of the quality of the opposition bowling. The opening combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and teen sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi promises an explosive start. In the middle order, Ryan Parag and Dhruv Jurel provide stability mixed with aggressive flair, while Luan-Dre Pretorius adds power-hitting depth. This group thrives on positive cricket and has the ability to find momentum early on, which remains RR's biggest strength in IPL 2026.
weaknesses
RR's bowling attack remains a major concern, especially when it comes to controlling the flow of runs. While they have big names like Jofra Archer and experienced campaigners like Sandeep Sharma, consistency has been an issue. Youngsters like Kwena Mfaka, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Kuldeep Sen and Nandre Berger are talented but have not been tested at the highest level. Although the inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran provides balance, their recent IPL form has been inconsistent. Additionally, uncertainty over leadership, with several potential captaincy candidates, could impact the team's stability at the start of the season.
opportunity
With a fresh team built keeping the youth in mind, RR has the opportunity to redefine its identity and move towards continued success. A fearless approach combined with a long-term vision could help them make the playoffs or even mount a title challenge. This season offers an opportunity to invest in the future while remaining competitive.
threats
The same young core can also pose a risk. Inexperienced players like Suryavanshi, Pretorius, Mafaka, Kuldeep Sen and Vignesh Puthur may struggle in pressure situations. If confidence wanes or early results go against them, it could derail Rajasthan Royals' IPL 2026 campaign.
Rajasthan Royals squad for IPL 2026:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ryan Parag, Ravindra Jadeja (trade in), Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma, Nandre Berger, Sam Curran (trade in), Adam Milne, Quena Mafaka, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira (trade in), Ravi Singh, Shubham Dubey, Kuldeep Sen, Yudhveer Singh Charak, Luan-Dre. Pretorius, Vignesh Puthur, Sushant Mishra, Yashraj Punja, Brijesh Sharma, Aman Rao
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