RCB retain 17 players from title-winning squad ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have retained 17 players ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction, a decision that has come on expected lines with the franchise heading into the next season as the defending champions.
Among the capped players released are the overseas duo of Liam Livingstone (INR 8.75 Cr) and Lungi Ngidi (INR 1 Cr), while Mayank Agarawal (INR 1 Cr) - who replaced Devdutt Padikkal after the southpaw picked up an injury in May 2025 - has also been let go.
Karnataka all-rounder Manoj Bhandage (INR 30L), wrist-spinner Mohit Rathee (INR 30L) and hard-hitting batter Swastik Chikara (INR 30L) are the uncapped players who’ve been released.
The retentions and releases put together will allow RCB a purse amount of INR 16.4 Cr to spend at the auction to fill a total of 8 slots (including two overseas players).
