IPL 2026 auction: List of all players released and retained by Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Ankitjit Singh is a Sub-Editor at Khel Now, known for his in-depth knowledge of cricket.

Published at :November 15, 2025 at 5:50 PM

Modified at :November 15, 2025 at 5:50 PM

IPL 2026 auction: List of all players released and retained by Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will head into IPL 2026 auction with a purse of INR 16.4 crores.

The wait for the title finally ended for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they lifted the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy after 17 long years in 2025. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, they ended their long title drought and joined the elite list of teams with IPL titles.

The entire RCB squad played a great role in the team lifting the title. Almost everyone chipped in at crucial stages and which was the main reason why they retained their core ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. However, there were a few surprise releases as well with big one being Liam Livingstone.

The core which helped RCB to win IPL 2025 was retained while some big overseas names were released. They would be keen to fill those spots at the auction and then defend their title in 2026.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the IPL 2025

RCB, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, IPL 2025 win — RCB celebrate after winning IPL 2025. (Image Source: BCCI)

RCB looked a class apart with the bat and ball right from the start in IPL 2025. They finished the league stage at the second spot with nine wins and four losses, playing Qualifier 1 against the Punjab Kings (PBKS).

They thrashed PBKS by eight wickets and then again faced them in the final again. It was a close-fought game, but ultimately the Rajat Patidar-led side won by six runs to mark their first title win.

Which players did Royal Challengers Bengaluru retain before the IPL 2026 auction?

Rajat Patidar (c), 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.

Which players did Royal Challengers Bengaluru release before the IPL 2026 auction?

Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Tim Seifert, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Blessing Muzarabani, Mohit Rathee

What is Royal Challengers Bengaluru remaining purse value ahead of the IPL 2026 auction?

Having retained 19 players ahead of IPL 2026 auction, RCB will be among the teams who will have a purse less than INR 20 crores. They have a purse of INR 16.4 crores and would be looking to add some finishers and fast bowlers to their squad.

Who won IPL 2025?

RCB won IPL 2025.

Who is the captain of RCB.

Rajat Patidar is the captain of RCB.

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Ankitjit Singh

Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.