Ravichandran Ashwin has endorsed Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s strong start to their title defence, insisting the franchise has assembled a squad capable of adding another team. IPL Taj over the next two seasons. After ending a 17-year title drought in 2025, RCB enter IPL 2026 carrying the weight of expectations and the pressure that comes with being the defending champions.Only RCB was retained in the 2025 mega auction. Virat KohliRajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal before rebuilding their roster. The overhaul saw key additions like Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, giving the team a more balanced structure that delivered the franchise’s long-awaited first IPL trophy.
Title-winning depth in RCB’s squad
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised the balance and depth of the squad, saying that it no longer relies on just one or two stars. “RCB can add another title in the next two years with this squad. Winning the IPL is not easy, but with the buildings they have, the kind of alternatives they have.”Ashwin highlighted how RCB have overcome the previous gap in their collection. “The way they have addressed the holes in the combination. It’s a good package to finish in the top two,” he said.Over the years, RCB has been criticized for relying too much on star power. Post-auction reconstruction has changed that impression. The batting is now more flexible, the pace resources are stronger, and each player has a clear role in the squad.
Absence of Foreign Power and Hazelwood
Ashwin called RCB’s overseas contingent one of the best players of the tournament. “In Phil Salt, Jacob Bethel, Tim David and Romario Shepherd, it’s probably the best four foreigners you can get, and it’s one of the best players in the tournament,” he said.Despite Josh Hazlewood’s injury making his availability uncertain for the start of IPL 2026, Ashwin believes that could work in RCB’s favour. “In all honesty, it’s a blessing in disguise for RCB. If they don’t have Hazlewood and are worried about Salt’s form, they can play both Salt and Bethel. And when Hazlewood comes back, you’ll have a clear picture of his form and you can make changes depending on that,” he said.Ashwin also noted the flexibility of the bowling attack. “If the bowling is leaking too much, they can leave Mangesh Yadav out and bring in Jacob Duffy or Hazlewood when they are fit. They have a squad that can conquer home conditions and handle ups and downs with bat and ball.”
Ahoon’s RCB Possible XI (Considering Hazlewood unavailable):
Virat Kohli – Phil Salt – Jacob Bethel – Rajat Patidar – Jitesh Sharma – Tim David – Romario Shepherd – Krunal Pandya – Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Mangesh Yadav – Yash Dayal – Suyash Sharma (Impact Sub)With this combination of experience and overseas firepower, Ashwin believes RCB are well-equipped to defend their title and be among the frontrunners in IPL 2026.
