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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy in 2025 after years of heartbreak and near misses. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, the Bengaluru-based franchise displayed remarkable consistency and resilience, blending experience with youthful flair.
As the IPL gears up for its 2026 mega auction, every franchise will have to make some tough choices – and for RCB, deciding which Indian players to retain will be one of their biggest challenges.
5 Indian players RCB can retain ahead of the IPL 2026 auction
1. Virat Kohli – The face of RCB and the heart of Bengaluru
Even after stepping away from leadership duties, Virat Kohli remains the emotional backbone of RCB. The veteran batter, who has been with the franchise since the IPL’s inception in 2008, continues to be their most dependable run-scorer. In the 2025 season, Kohli was at his vintage best — piling up consistent fifties, anchoring tricky chases, and mentoring younger teammates.
Kohli’s experience, unmatched fitness, and hunger for runs make him a certain retention. Beyond the numbers, his influence on and off the field ensures RCB’s fan base remains as passionate as ever. With the 2026 season expected to be another high-stakes campaign, retaining Kohli is both a cricketing and emotional decision for the franchise.
2. Rajat Patidar (Captain) – The calm leader of a new era
Patidar, who took over the captaincy in 2025, led RCB to their long-awaited title triumph — a feat that etched his name into the franchise’s history books. His tactical acumen, composure under pressure, and ability to lead by example made him an instant fan favorite. With the bat, Patidar was consistent in the middle order, often guiding RCB through crucial phases of innings. His leadership rejuvenated the squad and fostered a culture of unity and accountability. Given his impact, RCB will undoubtedly retain him as captain going forward. Patidar represents the new generation of Indian leaders — calm, confident, and clear-headed.
3. Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper) – The X-factor finisher
In a team filled with big names, Jitesh Sharma emerged as RCB’s surprise package of the season. The wicketkeeper-batter brought his explosive finishing abilities to the fore, consistently delivering in the death overs. His aggressive strokeplay and ability to counter high-quality pace bowling made him one of the best Indian finishers in IPL 2025.
Moreover, Jitesh’s sharp wicketkeeping skills provided balance to the side, especially behind the stumps when spinners like Krunal Pandya or part-timers were in operation. His fearless approach and adaptability in pressure situations make him an asset RCB would want to keep for the long term.
4. Krunal Pandya – The utility all-rounder
After joining RCB, Krunal Pandya proved to be one of their most strategic acquisitions. His left-arm spin played a crucial role in controlling the middle overs, while his ability to chip in with handy runs down the order added vital depth to the batting lineup.
Krunal’s experience as a senior Indian player brought balance and flexibility to RCB’s team combinations. He often operated as a bowling all-rounder who could handle responsibility when the top order failed. His calm temperament and match awareness make him a valuable retention for the 2026 season, especially considering how all-rounders are often in high demand during mega auctions.
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5. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – The experienced spearhead
Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar added immense value to RCB’s bowling attack in 2025. His ability to swing the new ball and execute yorkers in the death overs brought control and consistency to their bowling unit. In a season where fast bowlers played a decisive role, Bhuvneshwar’s experience and adaptability stood out.
Despite being one of the senior-most players in the league, he remains fit, focused, and as effective as ever. His mentorship of young bowlers like Zakary Foulkes was instrumental in shaping RCB’s championship-winning campaign. For RCB, retaining Bhuvneshwar ensures both leadership and depth in their pace attack.
Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 3 overseas players RCB can retain ahead of IPL 2026 auction
