IPL 2026: 3 players RCB should target in auction

RCB are entering the auction with a purse of 16.4 crores and 8 available slots.

The IPL 2026 mini-auction is around the corner and is set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. With 77 remaining slots to be filled, teams are expected to engage in intense bidding wars based on their respective needs.

A total of 350 players have been shortlisted by the BCCI for the mini-auction, including 240 Indian players and 110 overseas players. The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will enter the auction with a purse of 16.4 crores.

While they appear well settled after retaining most of their core for the season, they are still in need of a strong middle-order batter to replace Liam Livingstone and backup overseas pacers, especially with Josh Hazlewood currently unfit and his availability for the IPL in doubt.

On that note, let’s take a look at the 3 players RCB should target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

3. Auqib Nabi

Auqib Nabi is on the radar of several teams, including RCB, and is expected to be picked in the IPL for the first time. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer has been in impressive form on the domestic circuit.

He picked 15 wickets in the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy season in just seven matches, and overall, he has claimed 43 wickets in 34 T20 matches.

RCB are also on the lookout for a backup option for someone like Yash Dayal and would be keen to add a pacer like Auqib Nabi, whose skill set could prove crucial, especially in pressure situations.

2. Matt Henry

Matt Henry is expected to attract several interests at the auction. With a shortage of experienced pace bowlers available, Henry could trigger a bidding war, and RCB are likely to be keen on securing his services.

With reports growing about Josh Hazlewood’s uncertain availability for the IPL due to injury, RCB would look to bring in an overseas pacer who can strike with the new ball and is also effective in the death overs.

Henry’s experience in international cricket and his ability to adapt quickly to different conditions make him a reliable option.

1. Venkatesh Iyer

RCB could target Venkatesh Iyer, who has been released by KKR ahead of the auction. Royal Challengers Bengaluru were involved in a bidding war with KKR for him during the 2025 mega auction, but pulled out at the last moment, allowing KKR to secure him for a massive price of 23.75 crores.

However, his performances that season did not justify the hefty price tag, and as a result, KKR decided to release him ahead of this auction.

RCB will be keen to bring him into their squad as he offers an all-round option and adds a valuable left-handed batting presence. His ability to bat at different positions, whether opening or in the middle order, makes him an attractive target.

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