New Delhi, Nov 15, 2025

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru finalised their retained squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 auction, having kept 17 players and released eight.

Rajat Patidar, who led the team to their maiden victory in 18 editions of the tournament, will continue at the helm, while Virat Kohli, the former captain of the franchise, will continue for a record 19th season with the team.

The franchise have retained their core players, with match-winners like Phil Salt, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd and Josh Hazlewood, among others, being the ones retained.

The RCB’s most significant snub was England all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who was released due to his underwhelming performance last year. Additionally, South Africa pacer Lungi Ngidi was also let go

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