RCB's strongest playing XI for IPL 2026

RCB bought a total of 8 players in the mini-auction.

The defending champions of the IPL, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, successfully ticked most of their boxes at the recent mini-auction. Having already retained the core of their title-winning squad, RCB entered the auction primarily in search of quality backups and squad depth, eventually picking up eight players.

Their approach reflected a balanced strategy, combining experienced campaigners with promising young talent. With these additions, RCB now face a pleasant selection dilemma as they look to finalise their best playing XI for the upcoming season.

However, it is expected that the franchise will largely back the same core group that delivered success last year. Led by Rajat Patidar, RCB clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025 after defeating Punjab Kings in the final, ending an 18-year wait for glory.

The victory was especially emotional for fans as Virat Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy. Heading into the new season, RCB will be eager to defend their crown and further strengthen their legacy.

RCB’s picks in mini-auction

Royal Challengers Bengaluru made several smart purchases in the IPL 2026 auction, focusing on quality players and reliable backups. Their first major pick was Venkatesh Iyer for ₹7 crore, who could slot in as their new No. 3 batter.

They also signed Jacob Duffy for ₹2 crore, the current No. 2 bowler in the ICC T20I rankings. While he may not feature in the first-choice XI immediately, Duffy serves as an ideal backup considering Josh Hazlewood’s fitness concerns and uncertain availability for the IPL.

RCB further strengthened their squad by picking Mangesh Yadav for ₹5.2 crore. The left-armer is also a powerful hitter and can act as a solid backup for Yash Dayal. Another overseas addition was Jordan Cox, acquired for ₹75 lakh.

Cox has built a strong reputation across various leagues and provides quality cover for someone like Phil Salt at the top. In addition, RCB also invested in promising uncapped talent, signing Satwik Deswal, Vihaan Malhotra, Kanishk Chouhan, and Vicky Ostwal for ₹30 lakh each, adding depth and future potential to their squad.

What could be the RCB’s playing XI?

Phil Salt and Virat Kohli were one of the most successful opening combinations of IPL 2025, and they are set to return as RCB’s opening pair once again.

However, there is some uncertainty around the No. 3 position. Royal Challengers have signed Venkatesh Iyer, whose numbers at that spot are impressive, and he played a key role in KKR’s title-winning campaign in 2024.

On the other hand, Devdutt Padikkal was RCB’s regular No. 3 last season and produced several impactful innings. Based on experience and recent success, Iyer might get the nod ahead of Padikkal.

The middle order is likely to remain unchanged, with captain Rajat Patidar batting at No. 4, followed by Jitesh Sharma, Tim David and Romario Shepherd. All three played crucial roles in Bengaluru’s march to the title last season. Krunal Pandya is expected to round off the batting unit at No. 8.

The lower order is also likely to stay the same, featuring Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal. The trio was arguably the best pace attack of IPL 2025, and fans will expect them to deliver once again.

Suyash Sharma is likely to be the Impact Player, having impressed with his control in the middle overs and produced several standout performances for RCB last season.

Strongest Playing XI of Royal Challengers Bengaluru-

Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal.

Impact player: Suyash Sharma.

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