Sat Nov 15 14:43:24 UTC 2025: Summary:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have announced their squad for IPL 2026, following their first title win last year. Key players like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar have been retained, while Liam Livingstone, Mayank Agarwal, and Lungi Ngidi have been released. Despite Livingstone’s poor performance, RCB has bolstered their middle-order with players like Tim David and Romario Shepherd. Rasikh Dar Salam, despite limited appearances and a high price tag, has been retained. The team has a remaining purse of Rs 16.4 crore for future acquisitions.

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru Announce Squad for IPL 2026 After Maiden Victory

Bengaluru – Fresh off their historic IPL title win, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have unveiled their squad for the 2026 season. The team has retained core players like Virat Kohli and captain Rajat Patidar, signaling a commitment to stability after finally breaking their championship drought.

The most notable departure is that of English all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who failed to live up to his Rs 8.75 crore price tag last season. Mayank Agarwal and Lungi Ngidi were also released.

However, RCB fans can look forward to a strengthened middle-order, featuring in-form Australian Tim David, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, and the explosive Romario Shepherd. The retention of Rasikh Dar Salam, despite limited appearances and a hefty price tag, has raised some eyebrows.

“We believe this squad has the depth and balance to compete at the highest level,” said an RCB spokesperson. “We’re excited to build on last season’s success and bring more silverware to Bengaluru.”

With a remaining purse of Rs 16.4 crore, RCB is expected to be active in the upcoming auctions, seeking to further bolster their squad and defend their title.

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