Fresh off their first IPL title, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are reportedly preparing to release four key players before the 2026 mini-auction, sparking major fan buzz.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the reigning IPL champions under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, are reportedly planning a bold reshuffle ahead of the 2026 season. Sources suggest that the franchise could release four players before the mini-auction, in what is being described as a “strategic squad shake-up.”
Among the names expected to be released are England all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who was bought for ₹8.75 crore but managed just 112 runs in eight innings and took two wickets last season, and Mayank Agarwal, who scored 95 runs in four games after replacing an injured Devdutt Padikkal. With Padikkal set to return, Mayank’s stint with RCB may end.
South African bowler Lungi Ngidi, who played just two matches and picked up four wickets, and J&K pacer Rasikh Salam, who struggled for game time despite a ₹6 crore price tag, are also likely to be let go.
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The move signals RCB’s intent to strengthen their lineup and build a more balanced squad as they aim to defend their maiden IPL title. The mini-auction could now be crucial in shaping the team’s future.