Royal Challengers Bangalore Entered the 2026 mini-auction after winning their first IPL title in 2025. With a strong core and a clear knowledge of what worked last season, the defending champions have adopted a mature approach towards their retention and releases this year. However, many fans are still wondering whether RCB made the right call, or were there mistakes in their retention strategy?
RCB's roadmap to their maiden IPL trophy was guided by powerful performances and well-defined roles. Virat Kohli's performances at the top, Phil Salt's impact as an opening batsman, Rajat Patidar's leadership, and strong contributions from Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Romario Shepherd and Suyyash Sharma made their season successful. With this winning formula, the franchise retained 17 players, most of whom played key roles in the title race, and now entered the auction with Rs 16.4 crore to fill eight available slots, including two overseas positions. This approach is a departure from his previous habit of repeatedly shuffling teams after disappointing seasons.
Their list of releases is small but important as they move towards a new version. The biggest name to be let go is Liam Livingstone, bought for Rs 8.75 crore, who could not justify his price tag, scoring only 110 runs in 12 matches. His inconsistent form along with the performance of more reliable middle-order options such as Tim David and Jitesh Sharma led to his release. Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is another notable exit, although his exit was expected as RCB looks for a more lethal overseas fast bowler who can complement Hazlewood. The team also let go of Indian fast bowler Rasikh Salam Dar, who played only twice in the season despite being bought for Rs 6 crore.
In the uncapped release, Manoj Bhandage, Mohit Rathi and Swastik Chikara were expected to leave. His limited impact and RCB's plan to build a stable core meant that he did not fit into the long-term vision of the franchise. Collectively, the releases open up valuable purse space, allowing the franchise to target very specific roles without compromising the balance of the team.
RCB has to fill eight more places in its team
Heading into the mini-auction, RCB's primary need is an overseas fast bowling backup for Hazlewood. With the Australian fast bowler likely to have a heavy international workload due to back-to-back Ashes and T20 World Cups, RCB need a quality fast bowler who can support them well. Instead of spending big on star names like Mathisha Pathirana, the franchise can consider smart, cost-effective selections like Reece Topley, Gerald Coetzee, or Matt Henry. Their other big need is a wicket-taking spinner.
While Suyash had a breakout season, RCB lacked a specialist who could take wickets consistently in the middle overs. This puts Wanindu Hasaranga and Ravi Bishnoi at the top of their wish list, with Indian options like Rahul Chahar, Kumar Karthikeya and Karn Sharma also being considered. The Indian pace attack is another priority. With Rasikh gone, RCB needs reliable rotational options. Names like Akash Deep, who has played for the franchise before, and seasoned specialist Mohit Sharma stand out as strong fits. In the batting department, RCB is looking for a backup Indian top-order option. Venkatesh Iyer could be too expensive, making Prithvi Shaw or Sheikh Rashid a more realistic target. Additionally, Mahipal Lomror could be another fit for the lower middle order.
conclusion
The franchise has taken smart decisions while evaluating RCB after the retention window. After letting go of players who may not be of much use this season, the defending champions are looking for players who can add more balance and strengthen their squad.
players were released
Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, Mayank Agarwal, Manoj Bhandage, Swastik Chikara, Mohit Rathi
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 Bethel, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Dar, Swapnil Singh.
purse is left
Rs 16.40 crore
slots remaining
8 (2 foreigners)
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