IPL Auction, RCB Squad 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru Players List: The world’s richest and most thrilling cricket league, the Indian Premier League (IPL), is set to return in March or April next year. However, before the action begins on the field, all eyes will turn to the IPL 2026 Auction, scheduled to take place on December 16, 2026, where franchises will shape their squads for the upcoming season.
A total of 350 players are set to go under the hammer, but only 77 slots are available across all teams. This makes strategy, budgeting, and smart decision-making extremely crucial. Among all franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will remain one of the most closely watched teams during the auction proceedings.
RCB’s Auction Purse and Remaining Slots
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have already retained 17 players, leaving them with 8 vacant slots to fill at the IPL 2026 Auction. The franchise has a remaining purse of ₹16.40 crore, which they must use wisely to strengthen key areas of their squad.
RCB’s retention list includes global icon Virat Kohli, along with a solid core of Indian and overseas players. With limited slots and a moderate budget, the franchise’s auction strategy will be under intense scrutiny.
Key Areas RCB Need to Address
Overseas Fast Bowler Replacement
One of RCB’s top priorities will be signing an overseas fast bowler. With Josh Hazlewood currently sidelined due to injury, the team needs a reliable pace option who can deliver consistent performances, especially in high-pressure matches.
Middle-Order All-Rounder
RCB have released Liam Livingstone, creating a gap in the middle order. The management will likely look for a powerful batting all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, offering flexibility and balance to the playing XI.
RCB Retained Players Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have built a strong retained core featuring experience and young talent. Below is the list of players retained before the auction:
- Rajat Patidar (Captain)
- Virat Kohli
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Phil Salt
- Jitesh Sharma
- Krunal Pandya
- Swapnil Singh
- Tim David
- Romario Shepherd
- Jacob Bethell
- Josh Hazlewood
- Yash Dayal
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Nuwan Thushara
- Rasikh Salam
- Abhinandan Singh
- Suyash Sharma
Players Released by RCB Before IPL 2026 Auction
RCB made several notable releases ahead of the auction, including some experienced names:
- Mayank Agarwal
- Tim Seifert
- Liam Livingstone
- Lungi Ngidi
- Swastik Chikara
- Manoj Bhandage
- Mohit Rathi
These decisions have opened up opportunities for the franchise to revamp their squad with fresh talent.
Did RCB Include Any Players Through Trades?
Unlike some other franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru did not sign any players through trades ahead of the IPL 2026 season. This means their squad rebuild will rely entirely on smart auction buys.
Final Thoughts: RCB Under the Spotlight
After winning their maiden IPL title last season, expectations from RCB are sky-high. Fans and experts alike will be keen to see how the franchise uses the IPL 2026 Auction to defend their crown.
With limited slots, a fixed budget, and clear team requirements, RCB’s auction moves could play a decisive role in shaping their title defense campaign.
