Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally picked up my mother’s house Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy in 2025 after years of heartbreaks and near misses. Under the leadership of Rajat PatidarThe Bengaluru-based franchise displayed remarkable consistency and resilience, blending experience with youthful flair.
As the IPL gears up for the 2026 mega auction, each franchise will have to make some tough choices – and for RCB, deciding which Indian players to retain will be one of their biggest challenges.
RCB may retain 5 Indian players before IPL 2026 auction
1. Virat Kohli – Face of RCB and heart of Bengaluru
Even after stepping down from leadership duties, Virat Kohli He remains the emotional backbone of RCB. The experienced batsman, who has been with the franchise since the inception of the IPL in 2008, remains their most reliable run-scorer. In the 2025 season, Kohli was at his best – scoring consecutive fifties, leading tough chases and mentoring younger teammates.
Kohli’s experience, unmatched fitness and hunger for runs makes him a definite retention. Beyond the numbers, his impact on and off the field ensures that the RCB fan base remains as passionate as ever. With the 2026 season expected to be another high-risk campaign, retaining Kohli is both a cricketing and emotional decision for the franchise.
2. Rajat Patidar (Captain) – Quiet leader of the new era
Patidar, who took over the captaincy in 2025, led RCB to their long-awaited title win – a feat that etched his name in the franchise’s history books. His tactical acumen, composure under pressure and ability to lead by example made him an instant fan favourite. With the bat, Patidar was consistent in the middle order, often guiding RCB through crucial phases of the innings. His leadership rejuvenated the squad and fostered a culture of unity and accountability. Given his impact, RCB will undoubtedly keep him as captain going forward. Patidar represents the new generation of Indian leaders – calm, confident and outspoken.
3. Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper) – X-Factor Finisher
In a team full of big names, Jitesh Sharma Emerged as the surprise package of RCB’s season. The wicketkeeper-batsman brought out his explosive finishing abilities while bowling consistently in the death overs. His aggressive strokeplay and ability to counter high-quality fast bowling made him one of the best Indian finishers in IPL 2025.
Furthermore, Jitesh’s sharp wicketkeeping skills provided balance to the team, especially behind the stumps when spinners like Krunal Pandya or part-time spinners were in operation. His fearless approach and adaptability in pressure situations makes him an asset that RCB would like to retain for a long time.
4. Krunal Pandya- Excellent all-rounder
Krunal Pandya proved to be one of their most strategic acquisitions after joining RCB. His left-arm spin played a vital role in controlling the middle overs, while his ability to score easy runs lower down the order added vital depth to the batting lineup.
Krunal’s experience as a senior Indian player brought balance and flexibility to RCB’s team combination. He often served as a bowling all-rounder who could take over the responsibility if the top order failed. His calm nature and match awareness make him a valuable retention for the 2026 season, especially considering how all-rounders are often in high demand during mega auctions.
Also read: Kolkata Knight Riders: KKR may retain 5 Indian players before IPL 2026 auction
5. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Experienced leader
experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar Adds immense value to RCB’s bowling attack in 2025. His ability to swing the new ball and bowl yorkers in the death overs brought control and stability to their bowling unit. In a season where fast bowlers played a decisive role, Bhuvneshwar’s experience and adaptability came to the fore.
Despite being one of the most senior players in the league, he remains as fit, focused and effective as ever. His mentoring of young bowlers like Zachary Foulkes was instrumental in shaping RCB’s championship-winning campaign. For RCB, retaining Bhuvneshwar ensures both leadership and depth in their pace attack.
Also read: Royal Challengers Bangalore: RCB may retain 3 foreign players before IPL 2026 auction