The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have made a defining statement ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction—continuity is their priority. Fresh off their maiden IPL title, RCB have opted to retain the heart of their championship squad, keeping 17 players while releasing eight, entering the auction with ₹16.4 crore in hand.

This retention approach reflects a clear belief within the management: the formula that delivered success in 2025 still holds strong. Unlike franchises that treated the retention deadline as an opportunity for major restructuring, RCB chose to preserve their winning blueprint.

The Winning Model RCB Wants to Recreate

RCB’s title run in 2025 was anchored by a dominant batting group and a bowling attack built on discipline and new-ball strength.

Batting Strength

Virat Kohli led

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