RCB Retention List 2026: Full List of Retained & Released Players

RCB Retention List 2026: Full List of Retained & Released Players

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are heading into the IPL 2026 auction with renewed confidence after a historic 2025 campaign that saw them lift their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar and the strategic guidance of Andy Flower, the franchise finally ended its 17-year wait for glory. As the IPL 2026 retention deadline approaches, RCB’s management is keen on keeping its winning formula intact.

This article breaks down the RCB retention list 2026, details of the RCB retained players 2026, players who might be released, and the RCB 2026 auction strategy-providing a complete, reader-friendly guide to how the champions are shaping their squad for the upcoming season.

RCB Retention List 2026: Core Strength Intact

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru retention list 2026 reflects stability and confidence in their title-winning combination. Andy Flower has hinted that minimal changes will be made to preserve the balance of the team that dominated IPL 2025.

RCB’s batting unit, which breached the 200-run mark four times, will remain largely untouched. The management is set to retain its key performers across departments while making selective additions during the auction.

RCB Retained Players List Before IPL 2026 Auction

Here’s the full list of RCB retained players for IPL 2026:

• Rajat Patidar – The title-winning captain will continue leading the side in 2026.
• Virat Kohli – The face of RCB and a consistent match-winner, continuing his loyalty to the franchise.
• Phil Salt – The explosive top-order batter who brings aggression at the start.
• Devdutt Padikkal – The young gun and the future of RCB’s batting lineup.
• Tim David – Known for his finishing prowess in pressure situations.
• Jitesh Sharma – The wicketkeeper-batter capable of finishing games in style.
• Swastik Chikara – A promising domestic player adding depth to the middle order.
• Jacob Bethell – The all-rounder option from overseas who adds versatility.
• Krunal Pandya – The spin all-rounder who delivers economical spells and strengthens the middle order.
• Manoj Bhandage – A steady contributor in the lower order.
• Romario Shepherd – A handy all-rounder who provides balance to the team.
• Josh Hazlewood – The leader of the bowling attack, effective in all phases.
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar – A seasoned pacer bringing experience and control.
• Suyash Sharma – The young spinner who impressed with his variations.
• Yash Dayal – The left-arm pacer who offers variety to the bowling lineup.
• Mayank Agarwal – A dependable top-order option.
• Rasikh Salam – A promising fast bowler for the future.
• Nuwan Thushara – A Sri Lankan pacer who brings X-factor with his slinging action.

This lineup represents RCB’s intent to preserve the winning mix while preparing for future challenges.

RCB Released Players List 2026: Who Might Be Let Go?

While RCB’s retention decisions focus on consistency, a few players are likely to be released to free up purse value ahead of the auction. The RCB released players before IPL 2026 include names who either underperformed or found limited opportunities in IPL 2025.

Likely RCB Released Players List 2026

• Liam Livingstone – Despite flashes of brilliance, the England all-rounder couldn’t cement his place.
• Lungi Ngidi – The South African pacer struggled with consistency in the shorter format.
• Mohit Rathee – Couldn’t break into the playing XI.
• Abhinandan Singh – Limited chances and minimal impact.
• Swapnil Singh – Expected to be released to balance the squad.
• Tim Seifert – Overseas competition and team balance may see him miss out.

These changes align with RCB’s plan to maintain balance while creating space for fresh inclusions.

Rajat Patidar RCB Captain 2026: Leadership Continues

After guiding RCB to their first IPL title in 2025, Rajat Patidar will continue as captain. His composed leadership and form with the bat were crucial in RCB’s dream campaign, making him the natural choice to lead the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad 2026 into the next season.

RCB 2026 Auction Strategy: Focus Areas and Targets

As part of their RCB 2026 auction strategy, the franchise is expected to target a few key areas to reinforce their already balanced squad.

What RCB Will Look For at the IPL 2026 Auction?

• Reliable all-rounders for the lower middle order.
• Indian and overseas pacers for rotational depth.
• An additional spin-bowling option who can also contribute with the bat.

Potential Targets for IPL 2026 Auction

• Matt Henry – A proven new-ball specialist who can thrive at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
• Michael Bracewell – The off-spin all-rounder who previously played for RCB.
• Cameron Green – A dream addition, though RCB might need to release big names to afford him.
• Mohammad Nabi – A seasoned all-rounder offering both spin and batting depth.
• Venkatesh Iyer (Trade Target) – RCB could attempt a shock trade to bring in the dynamic all-rounder, especially after missing out on him in the previous auction.

With these moves, RCB aims to enhance its bowling lineup and strengthen lower-order stability for the IPL 2026 season.

FAQs on RCB Retained and Released Players 2026

1. Which players will RCB retain before the IPL 2026 auction? RCB are likely to retain Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Tim David, and Josh Hazlewood among others.
2. Who will RCB release before IPL 2026? Possible releases include Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, and Swapnil Singh.
3. What is RCB’s strategy ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction? The franchise will focus on adding power hitters and versatile all-rounders while strengthening their bowling options.

The RCB retained players list before the IPL 2026 auction shows a team committed to consistency, chemistry, and confidence. By keeping its core intact and targeting a few tactical additions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are setting up for another dominant run in the upcoming season. As fans eagerly await the IPL 2026 auction date, one thing is clear; RCB are no longer the challengers; they are the champions looking to build a legacy.

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