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Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction scheduled for December 16, 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have retained a solid core of 17 players, giving them a stable foundation going into the auction. The retained list is headlined by Virat Kohli, skipper Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, and premier pacer Josh Hazlewood, along with a balanced mix of Indian and overseas talent. RCB have opted to release a few notable names, including Liam Livingstone, Mayank Agarwal, and Lungi Ngidi, as part of their strategy to free up funds and fine-tune the squad for the upcoming season. With a remaining purse of INR 16.4 crore, the franchise will look to fill eight vacant slots, including two overseas positions, at the Abu Dhabi auction. The focus is expected to be on strengthening squad depth and addressing specific gaps as RCB aim for a strong IPL 2026 campaign.
RCB Retained Players for IPL 2026 (17):
Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt (England), Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David (Australia), Romario Shepherd (West Indies), Jacob Bethell (England), Josh Hazlewood (Australia), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Nuwan Thushara (Sri Lanka), Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh, Suyash Sharma
RCB Released Players Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction:
Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Mohit Rathee
Royal Challengers Bengaluru strengthened their bowling unit by signing New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy for INR 2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. Known for his accuracy, movement with the new ball and calm execution under pressure, Duffy offers RCB a dependable seam option. His addition provides valuable depth to the pace department and gives the franchise a solid overseas back-up as they aim for balance and consistency throughout the season.
RCB has brought in Jacob Duffy for INR 2 crores.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru is now left with only Rs 9.4 crores after buying Venkatesh Iyer.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru added depth and versatility to their squad by securing Venkatesh Iyer for INR 7 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. The left-handed all-rounder brings valuable experience at the top and in the middle order, along with the option of medium-pace bowling, giving RCB much-needed balance. Known for his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, Venkatesh’s inclusion strengthens RCB’s Indian core and provides flexibility in team combinations as they look to build a title-challenging side.
RCB gets Venkatesh Iyer for INR 7 crores.
Long discussions going on, to bring in Venkatesh Iyer.
RCB has entered the auction table and now they are currently after Venkatesh Iyer.
The wait is over, the auction for IPL 2026 has started with all the franchises ready to go all out to bring their best player in.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are likely to head into the auction with a clear set of requirements. An overseas fast-bowling backup for Josh Hazlewood appears to be a priority, especially with the Australian pacer currently sidelined due to injury and ruled out of the Ashes. RCB are also expected to look for a middle-order batting option following the release of Liam Livingstone. In addition, the franchise may consider adding a left-arm pace backup as cover for Yash Dayal, who has not featured in competitive cricket since IPL 2025 and recently missed the UPT20 League.
The IPL 2026 Auction will start at 2:30 PM IST on December 16, Tuesday.
Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt (England), Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David (Australia), Romario Shepherd (West Indies), Jacob Bethell (England), Josh Hazlewood (Australia), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Nuwan Thushara (Sri Lanka), Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh, Suyash Sharma
Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Mohit Rathee
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will enter the IPL 2026 auction with a remaining purse of INR 16.4 crore, leaving them with a moderate budget to fine-tune their squad. Having already secured a strong core through retentions, RCB are expected to focus on smart and targeted buys rather than big-ticket signings. With limited slots to fill, the franchise will aim to maximise value at the auction table and strengthen key areas ahead of the new season.
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the IPL 2026 auction. Stay with us for all the latest updates, bids and squad changes related to Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
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