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Fresh from clinching their first IPL crown, Royal Challengers Bengaluru head into the 2026 season with a settled core and sharp reinforcements, as key auction buys and smart retentions set the tone for a strong title defence.
RCB retained their biggest pillars, including Virat Kohli.
New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru stepped into the IPL 2026 mini auction carrying the confidence of reigning champions. After lifting their maiden title earlier this year in Ahmedabad, the franchise focused on fine tuning rather than rebuilding. The management made it clear that the goal was continuity, while adding depth in areas that could provide flexibility across a long season.
The headline signing for RCB was Venkatesh Iyer, who joined the side for Rs 7 crore. The bidding started with interest from Lucknow and Gujarat before turning into a direct contest between RCB and his former franchise. RCB stayed firm and sealed the deal once the bidding crossed Rs 6.80 crore. Venkatesh now reunites with his Madhya Pradesh teammate and captain Rajat Patidar, strengthening the Indian core of the squad.
Venkatesh Iyer brings valuable versatility as a top order batter who can also contribute with the ball. His ability to handle pressure and play impactful knocks makes him an ideal addition to a side already rich in star power. For RCB, his presence adds balance and allows the team to manage combinations more effectively depending on conditions.
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru also strengthened their bowling resources by picking New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy for Rs 2 crore. Signed at his base price, Duffy offers control with the new ball and depth to the overseas pace attack. His inclusion provides an alternative option alongside the established fast bowling group.
Alongside marquee names, RCB invested in several young Indian players during the auction. Satvik Deswal, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra and Kanishk Chouhan were all picked up at affordable prices, signaling the franchise intent to build a pipeline for the future. Mangesh Yadav emerged as another notable buy, joining the squad for Rs 5.2 crore, while Jordan Cox was added to strengthen the batting depth.
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The final RCB squad for IPL 2026 blends championship experience with fresh energy. The complete list includes Rajat Patidar as 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, Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, Satvik Deswal, Mangesh Yadav, Jordan Cox, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra and Kanishk Chouhan.
RCB’s retained players underline the belief in a winning formula. Virat Kohli remains the face of the franchise, while Rajat Patidar continues to lead after a successful title winning campaign. The presence of experienced all rounders and bowlers ensures balance across departments, allowing the team to adapt to different match situations.
A few familiar names were released ahead of the auction as part of squad restructuring. Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone and Lungi Ngidi were among those who moved on, making way for fresh combinations and tactical flexibility. These decisions indicate a shift toward maintaining balance rather than relying solely on big names.
With a settled core and targeted additions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru appear well placed to defend their crown. The mix of proven match winners and emerging talent offers depth, while the leadership group provides stability. RCB will enter IPL 2026 knowing expectations are high but confidence is even higher.
