IPL 2026: "He will be next generation’s Andre Russell"- Ravi Ashwin makes bold predictions for RCB ahead of auction

Ravi Ashwin feels that Romario Shepherd will be a crucial element for RCB in IPL 2026.

Former Indian spinner Ravi Ashwin said that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) looks like one of the most settled teams ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction. He also hailed RCB’s decision of adding hard-hitting batters like Tim David and Romario Shepherd in the squad and feels that the duo will add firepower to the team’s batting unit in the next season.

Following the completion of the retention process, the focus has now shifted to IPL 2026 mini auction, which is set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. A total of 77 player slots will be available during the mini-action, including 31 slots for overseas players.

Defending champions RCB have Rs.16.40 crore left in their salary purse and have eight slots available in their squad. Ahead of the next season, the Rajat Patidar-led side have retained 17 players in their squad including six overseas players.

RCB are the most settled team in the South: Ravi Ashwin

Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash ki Baat, Ashwin heaped praise on Shepherd following his marvellous form in the recent T20I series against New Zealand. He also feels that he can be the next generation’s Andre Russell in future and his presence will strengthen RCB’s lower-order batting in IPL 2025.

“RCB have caught Tim David at his peak, and Romario Shepherd is also getting there. Shepherd was in his elements against New Zealand recently, his bowling is also getting better now. You are probably talking about the next generation’s Andre Russell. RCB have taken them both, and have the power in the end. So, Virat Kohli can take all the time that he needs. If he scores 80 off 50, even then RCB are in a great position,” he said.

The 39-year-old also reckoned that RCB should look for fast bowlers during IPL 2026 auction as they have a well-settled batting line-up. He also believes that Virat Kohli will be more effective in the next season as he gets a lot of breaks from international cricket now.

“RCB can maybe look for some fast bowling back-ups, but they are the most settled team in the South. Their batting order is set. Virat Kohli will obviously come in with a lot of energy, a lot of fire because he is getting a lot of breaks these days,” he concluded.

Notably, Kohli played a prominent role in RCB’s victory in IPL 2025, finishing as the leading run-scorer for the side. Recently, RCB suffered a big blow as their captain Rajat Patidar was ruled out of the field for about four months after sustaining a serious injury while playing for India A. Meanwhile, Ashwin, who played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last season, announced his retirement from Indian cricket and IPL earlier this year.

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