Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has released the England all-rounder. liam livingstone The end of a short and challenging stint with the franchise, ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Livingstone was one of two overseas players let go by RCB as they prepare to realign their squad after the 2025 season.
Livingstone, who was signed for a whopping Rs 8.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, was expected to play a major role with both bat and ball. However, his performance fell short of expectations as he could only score 112 runs and take two wickets, which was well below his capabilities.
Livingstone featured in 10 of RCB’s 16 matches, including the final, but struggled to carve out a consistent role. Despite his proven T20 pedigree, he was unable to find rhythm with the bat or his handy spin options, resulting in him being benched during crucial stages of the season.
The franchise acknowledged that such high-profile decisions are never easy, especially when dealing with a player of Livingstone’s stature.
Mo Bobat praises Liam Livingstone’s honesty and character
RCB Director of Cricket mo bobat The England star opened up about the emotional challenge behind releasing him. In an episode of RCB Bold Diaries, Bobat reflected on Livingstone’s professionalism and the respect he commands inside the dressing room.
“On a personal level, it is with a very heavy heart that I release Livi. I like Livi very much as a player, but also as a person. I really enjoyed my time with him.” Bobat described RCB as bold diaries.
He also highlighted Livingstone’s exceptional conduct during the period when he was not selected in the XI – a phase that can often test the patience of a senior international player.
“There’s a lot of integrity in the way he’s worked during the period he’s been out of the team. Because for a player like him, who is an experienced international player, it would have been difficult. So he’s made a huge contribution and he’s had a great attitude. But he has high standards for himself, I know what he’s capable of.”
The comments underline the strong relationship Livingstone has built with the coaching staff and teammates despite his lack of good performances on the field.
RCB wants to strengthen its squad in IPL 2026 auction
The decision to release Livingstone reflects RCB’s broader aim to reshape its overseas squad keeping in mind balance, form and long-term planning. With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, RCB is expected to target power-hitters and versatile all-rounders who can make a consistent impact throughout the season.
Current squad: Rajat Patidar (captain), Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Krunal Pandya, Josh HazlewoodTim David, Jitesh Sharma, Devdutt Padikkal, Nuwan Thushara, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Bethel, Romario Shepherd, Suyyash Sharma, Swapnil Singh, Yash Dayal, Abhinandan Singh, Rasikh Dar.
