Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have retained a strong core of 17 players and made targeted additions to the IPL 2026 mini auction in Abu Dhabi. For the first time in its history, RCB will enter the IPL season as the defending champions.Here’s a look at RCB’s predicted playing XI and impact players for IPL 2026:Virat Kohli: The veteran batsman will continue his opening role for RCB, riding on his red-hot IPL form. Having already crossed the 9000-run milestone, Kohli has been instrumental in providing an aggressive start during the powerplay.Salt: Phil Salt was a key figure in RCB’s title-winning campaign last season, giving the team a consistent explosive start. However, he could compete with Jacob Bethel, who has impressed in the T20 World Cup, including a century against India at Wankhede.Devoted Pedicle: Dev Dutt is expected to play a pivotal role at the pedicle No.3, acting as a bridge between the explosive opening pair and the middle order. While he is likely to be the first-choice option, he will face competition. Venkatesh IyerWhich was bought in the auction for 7 crore rupees.Rajat Patidar (C): Rajat Patidar will continue as the captain after leading RCB to their historic first IPL title. Along with his leadership, his impact as a powerful middle-order batsman will be crucial for the team.Jitesh Sharma (WK): One of RCB’s unsung heroes, Jitesh Sharma played a crucial innings last season, including a brilliant innings against LSG. He will continue to support Tim David as wicketkeeper and finisher. Romario Shepherd In Death OversTim David: Tim David will serve as RCB’s primary finisher and lower middle order power hitter. With a strike rate hovering around 170-180 in the death overs, he brings stability and firepower to the team’s finishing efforts.Romario Shepherd: Romario Shepherd’s all-round abilities make him a key asset. He produced key performances with both bat and ball in the playoffs last season and is expected to provide the balance once again.Krunal Pandya: All-rounder Krunal Pandya, who played a pivotal role in the IPL 2025 final, took 2 wickets for just 17 runs in 4 overs. He offers excellent balance with both bat and ball. Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The “Swing King” will lead RCB’s pace attack, especially in his absence Josh Hazlewood at the start of the tournament. His powerplay bowling will be crucial.Yash Dayal: Yash Dayal has been a reliable all-phase bowler for RCB in recent seasons. His role in the powerplay, middle and death overs will remain important, although concerns remain as he has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2025 due to legal issues.Jacob Duffy: Jacob Duffy is expected to fill the void left by Josh Hazlewood in the early stages of the tournament. His performance with the new ball will be crucial for RCB’s bowling unit.Impact Player: Suyash SharmaSuyash Sharma made a huge impact last season with his wicket-taking ability. His mysterious spin makes him a prime candidate for the impact player role once again.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have predicted the playing XI for IPL 2026.
- Virat Kohli
- Full salt
- Devdat Padikal
- Rajat Patidar (C)
- Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Tim David
- Romario Shepherd
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Yash Dayal
- Jacob Duffy
- Suyash Sharma (Impact Player)
