RCB probable playing 11 for IPL 2026 after auction

Published - 18 Dec 2025, 11:34 IST | Updated - 18 Dec 2025, 11:48 IST

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have assembled a formidable side ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League, where they will enter with a strong determination to defend their maiden title. They entered the IPL 2026 mini-auction on Tuesday, December 16, with a purse of INR 16.40 crore. During the event, they roped in eight players.

While Venkatesh Iyer was their most expensive buy after he was roped in for INR 7 crore, his place in the playing XI is not guaranteed. On this note, CricTracker has a look at how an ideal playing combination could help the Bengaluru-based franchise increase their chances of being at their best once again when they play in the upcoming season.

Phil Salt has been an enforcer at the top of the order in the IPL in the last two seasons. He amassed 403 runs in 13 matches at an average of 33.58 and a strike rate of 175.98. The England wicketkeeper-batter has the potential to win at least 4–5 games single-handedly in the season.

Virat Kohli had a brief phase in the IPL when his consistency with the bat had deserted him. However, he is now back to his best, scoring more than 600 runs in each of the last three seasons. Last year, he averaged 54.75 and batted with a strike rate of 144.71.

Despite Venkatesh Iyer being brought into the setup, Devdutt Padikkal might hold onto his place at No. 3. The latter has been in much better form in the past 12 months in domestic cricket. He has also upgraded his hitting ability, making him someone who can anchor the innings and also shift gears when necessary.