Bengaluru
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finalised their retention list, releasing seven players while holding on to a strong core ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. The franchise, fresh off its maiden title win, opted for continuity as head coach Andy Flower emphasised the importance of preserving a settled group that delivered consistent, high-quality cricket last season.
Among those released are Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Blessing Muzarabani and Mohit Rathee. The decisions reflect RCB’s strategy to free up purse space while allowing room to strengthen in targeted areas during the upcoming auction. Despite parting ways with experienced names like Agarwal and Livingstone, the franchise expressed confidence that the outgoing players had contributed positively to the team environment.
RCB’s retained list underlines its commitment to stability. Rajat Patidar, who will continue as captain, leads a strong contingent that includes stalwarts Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal. The batting unit retains further firepower through Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma and Tim David. All-round options such as Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Romario Shepherd and Jacob Bethell add balance across formats.
The franchise has also held on to its bowling strength with Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh and Suyash Sharma forming a diverse attack equipped for varied conditions. This blend of experience and youthful enterprise remains central to RCB’s philosophy.
Flower noted that while releasing players is always difficult, the management is pleased with the retained core and will look to plug gaps through smart auction purchases. With a solid base in place, RCB enter the 2026 season aiming to build on their championship momentum and push for back-to-back titles.