Royal Challengers Bengaluru — Released & Retained Players 2026
Last updated: January 27, 2026
This page details the retained and released players for Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the IPL 2026 season, reflecting confirmed squad decisions and auction outcomes.
RCB Retained Players
| Player | Role | Overseas |
| Virat Kohli | Batter | — |
| Rajat Patidar | Batter | — |
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler | 🌍 |
| Yash Dayal | Bowler | — |
Released Players
| Player | Role | Overseas |
| Glenn Maxwell | All-rounder | 🌍 |
| Faf du Plessis | Batter | 🌍 |
| Cameron Green | All-rounder | 🌍 |
| Mohammed Siraj | Bowler | — |
Notes
- Captain: Rajat Patidar
- Strategy: Major reset of the overseas core.
RCB Retention & Release Strategy
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have historically balanced star retention with periodic structural resets. RCB tend to retain players who anchor the batting core or provide leadership continuity.
Releases are often used to recalibrate bowling balance or address depth concerns. This approach allows RCB to refresh tactical options while preserving their identity as a batting-centric franchise.
Released & Retained FAQ
What does “retained players” mean in the IPL?
Retained players are those kept by the franchise ahead of the auction.
What does “released players” mean?
Released players re-enter the IPL auction pool and are free to be signed by other teams.
Can released players rejoin the same team?
Yes. Teams may buy back released players during the auction.
When are released and retained players announced?
These decisions are typically announced several weeks before the IPL auction.
Will this page be updated after the auction?
Yes. This page reflects confirmed roster decisions and official announcements.