Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are heading into the IPL 2026 season with renewed confidence after finally breaking their 18-year title drought in 2025. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar and the ever-iconic Virat Kohli, RCB lifted their first-ever IPL trophy — a moment that redefined the franchise’s legacy.
However, despite their historic success, the team management is reportedly evaluating certain big-money signings who failed to deliver last season. With the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaching, RCB might part ways with a few players to free up additional funds for strategic buys.
Liam Livingstone Tops the Potential Release List
The most notable name under the scanner is England all-rounder Liam Livingstone. Bought for a hefty ₹8.75 crore, the power-hitter struggled to make an impact in IPL 2025, scoring only 112 runs at an average of 16.
With Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, and Krunal Pandya all performing well in the middle order, RCB may decide that Livingstone’s price tag outweighs his recent contributions. His release would give the franchise more financial flexibility ahead of the auction.
Indian Pacers Also Under Review
RCB’s pace department could also witness some reshuffling. While Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar impressed with a combined 39 wickets last season — ensuring their likely retention — a few domestic pacers may not be as fortunate.
Yash Dayal, who experienced a dip in form toward the end of IPL 2025 and faced off-field controversy involving allegations of personal misconduct, may find himself on the release list.
Another likely departure is Rasikh Salam Dar, the highest-paid uncapped Indian from the IPL 2025 mega auction, bought for ₹6 crore. The 24-year-old featured in only two matches for RCB and failed to leave a mark, which could prompt the franchise to part ways.
If RCB release Livingstone, Yash Dayal, and Rasikh Salam, they would free up around ₹19.75 crore, giving them significant leverage in the upcoming mini-auction.
Stable Core Expected to Remain Untouched
Despite potential exits, RCB’s core lineup — particularly their top order — is expected to remain intact. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt formed one of the most consistent opening partnerships of the 2025 season, while Devdutt Padikkal excelled at the crucial No. 3 spot. With Rajat Patidar’s successful captaincy, the management is unlikely to alter the team’s winning formula drastically.
RCB’s Probable Retained Players for IPL 2026:
Rajat Patidar (C), Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Krunal Pandya, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Nuwan Thushara, Suyash Sharma, Swastik Chikara, Swapnil Singh, Manoj Bhandage.