Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally broke their long-standing curse in the last season. After years of heartbreak, near misses, and endless “Ee Sala Cup Namde” chants, they finally made it happen. Yes, RCB lifted their maiden IPL trophy under Rajat Patidar’s leadership.
Now, the focus shifts to IPL 2026. The mini auction is likely to be held between December 13 and 15, and RCB will once again have to make big calls. Whom do they retain? Whom do they release? The decisions won’t be easy, but getting them right could decide their future. One thing is clear, though: RCB must hold on to their strongest Indian core.
In this listicle, let’s take a glimpse at the five Indian players RCB should definitely retain ahead of IPL 2026.
1. Virat Kohli
There is no debate here. You simply can’t imagine RCB without Virat Kohli. He has been there since 2008 and has given absolutely everything for the team.
Kohli continues to lead through his actions even without the captain’s armband. You could see how much this title meant to him. He wasn’t just playing for personal milestones; he was playing for the badge, for the fans who’ve stood by him all these years.
Retaining Kohli is a no-brainer. He is still one of the fittest and most disciplined players in world cricket. He gives RCB stability at the top and leadership in the dressing room. And let’s be honest, no other player connects with Bengaluru like he does. Kohli is RCB. Period.
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2. Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar’s story is the kind fans dream about. He quietly worked his way up, earned respect through performance, and then led the team to glory. Patidar proved everyone wrong when some fans doubted the decision.
He led with calmness even in situations that looked tough. His confidence rubbed off on the entire team. He was rock-solid with the bat in the middle order wherein he played the anchor role and also finished games when needed.
Patidar doesn’t talk much, but his actions do. He’s composed, tactically sharp, and respected by everyone around him. The franchise has found its next long-term leader, and retaining him is a must.
3. Jitesh Sharma
Every team dreams of a finisher who can take the game away in a few overs. RCB found theirs in Jitesh Sharma.
He plays the game with a fearless mindset. He doesn’t wait around; he attacks from ball one. Against pace or spin, it doesn’t matter; he backs his instincts and delivers. His 20-ball 40s and 30-ball 60s often changed the course of matches.
And let’s not forget his wicketkeeping. Sharp, alert, and consistent, he added balance to the team. He brings that infectious energy which lifts everyone around him. RCB can’t afford to lose a player like Jitesh. He’s young, brave, and hungry, exactly the kind of cricketer every successful team needs.
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4. Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya was one of RCB’s smartest signings. He bowled those crucial overs in the middle and controlled the run rate. Notably, he also chipped in with handy runs lower down the order.
He could bowl early if needed or step up as a pinch hitter. He is reliable, calm under pressure, and brings that “never panic” attitude. Every champion side has a player who holds things together quietly, and Krunal has all such ingredients on his resume.
In a mega auction, Indian all-rounders are gold. RCB will surely want to keep Krunal, not just for his skills, but also for his leadership qualities and match sense.
5. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
When RCB needed experience in their bowling unit, they turned to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He delivered the goods when it mattered the most for the team. The veteran bagged 17 wickets to his name in the IPL 2025 season. He registered his best bowling figures of 3/33 and final figures of 2/38. He doesn’t rely on raw pace; he uses skill, swing, and intelligence. His mentorship of youngsters like Zakary Foulkes played a big role in RCB’s success.
You need players like him in the dressing room, and retaining Bhuvneshwar ensures RCB keeps that bowling stability they worked so hard to build.
