As the excitement for the IPL 2026 Mega Auction builds up, all eyes are on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) — one of the most followed and loved franchises in the league. With big changes expected in team line-ups, RCB fans are eager to know which of their favorite stars will continue to wear the red and gold jersey next season.The
RCB Retention List 2026 will play a key role in shaping the team’s future strategy. The management will need to make smart decisions to strike a balance between experienced players and young talents, especially after mixed performances in recent seasons.
RCB Retention List 2026 (Expected)
Although the official announcement from the BCCI and IPL Governing Council is yet to come, several reports and insider sources suggest that RCB is likely to retain the following core players ahead of the 2026 season:
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Remarks |
|---|
| Virat Kohli | Top-order Batter | India | The face of RCB; almost certain to be retained again. |
| Faf du Plessis | Captain / Batter | South Africa | Leadership and consistency make him a key pick. |
| Glenn Maxwell | All-rounder | Australia | Adds balance with explosive batting and off-spin. |
| Mohammed Siraj | Fast Bowler | India | Core member of RCB’s pace attack. |
| Rajat Patidar | Batter | India | Emerging local star who impressed in recent seasons. |
| Cameron Green | All-rounder | Australia | Long-term investment with both bat and ball. |
These names are based on player form, contribution to the team, and franchise strategy in recent years.
RCB’s Retention Strategy for IPL 2026
The 2026 IPL Auction is expected to be another mega auction, where all teams can retain up to 4 players — either 3 Indians and 1 overseas or 2 Indians and 2 overseas.RCB, known for banking on star power, may retain their most impactful players — especially those who form the core of their batting and bowling units. The management is also expected to focus on young Indian talents who have shown promise in recent domestic and IPL seasons.
Players RCB Might Release Before IPL 2026 Auction
While some big names may stay, RCB could part ways with a few underperforming or injury-prone players to free up budget and slots. Likely releases could include:
- Dinesh Karthik (expected retirement after IPL 2025)
- Karn Sharma
- Reece Topley
- Mahipal Lomror
- Swapnil Singh
RCB’s Possible Auction Targets for IPL 2026
With the focus on rebuilding a balanced squad, RCB might look to sign players who can deliver under pressure. Possible targets include:
- A dependable Indian wicketkeeper-batter
- A left-arm fast bowler for variety
- A finisher with strong death-over hitting skills
- A quality spinner for middle overs
RCB Retention List 2026 Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Team Name | Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) |
| Season | IPL 2026 |
| Retained Players (Expected) | Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj |
| Possible Retentions Beyond 4 (if allowed) | Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green |
| Released Players (Expected) | Dinesh Karthik, Karn Sharma, Reece Topley |
| Captain (Expected) | Faf du Plessis / Virat Kohli |
| Focus for Auction | Bowling depth and finishing power |
| Announcement Date | To be confirmed by BCCI (likely early 2026) |
What Fans Can Expect from RCB in 2026
RCB fans have waited long for that elusive IPL trophy, and the 2026 season could be the year the team finally strikes the perfect balance. With Kohli’s experience, Faf’s leadership, and young blood like Patidar and Siraj, the franchise looks well-equipped to challenge the title contenders.
