Royal Paintings Bengaluru (RCB) finally he raised his daughters Indian Premier League (IPL) Cup in 2025 after years of heartache and misses. Under his leadership Rajat PatidarThe Bengaluru-based franchise has shown remarkable consistency and resilience, blending experience with youth and flawed experience.
As the IPL 2026 draws to a mega auction, every franchise, every franchise will have to make some tough choices and deciding which Indian player to retain will be one of the biggest challenges for RCB.
5 Indian players can keep RCB IPL 2026 auction ahead
1. Virat Kohli – Heart of RCB and Bengaluru
Even after stepping down from leadership positions Virat Kohli RCB’s emotional foothold remains. The veteran batsman, who has been with the franchise since the inception of the IPL in 2008, continues to be the most reliable run-getter. In the 2025 season, Kohli was the best of the bunch, the best of the bunch at consistent fifty, tough holes and mentoring his young teammates.
Kohli’s experience, unparalleled fitness and hunger for runs make him a definite catch. Outside of the numbers, his impact, his impact, has made RCB’s fan base as passionate as ever. The 2026 season is expected to be another high-stakes campaign for Kohli, an emotional decision for the franchise as well.
2. Rajat Patidar (Captain) – a quiet leader of a new era
Patidar, who took over as captain in 2025, led RCB to their long-awaited title triumph – cementing his name in the franchise’s history books. His tactical acumen, ability to lead under pressure and lead by example made him an instant fan favorite. With the bat, Patidar was consistent in the middle order, often guiding RCB through crucial phases of the innings. His leadership rejuvenated the staff and fostered a culture of unity and accountability. Given his impact, RCB will surely nominate him as captain. Patidar represents the new generation of Indian leaders – calm, confident and articulate.
3. Jitesh Sharma (WicketKeeper) – X-Factor Finisher
In a team full of big names, Jitesh Sharma RCB appeared as a surprise package of the season. The wicketkeeper-batsman brought his explosive finishing abilities to the fore, consistently delivering at the death. His aggressive stroking and high-quality pace-swinging ability have made him one of the best Indian finishers in IPL 2025.
Moreover, Jitesh’s sharp wicketkeeping skills provided balance behind the stumps, especially when there were spinners like Krunal Pandya or part-timers. His fearless approach and adaptability in pressure situations will make him an asset RCB will want to keep for a long time.
4. Krunal Pandya – utility all-rounder
After joining RCB, Krunal Pandya proved to be one of their most strategic acquisitions. Left-arm spin, control over mid-on, ability to chip with ease, ability to drop from a convenient depth to the batting draw has declined.
Krunal’s experience as a senior Indian player has brought balance and comfort to RCB’s team formations. He often acted as a bowler who could handle the responsibility when the top order failed. His composure and awareness of the match make him a valuable catch for the 2026 season, especially given that all-rounders are often in demand during mega-auctions.
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5. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – experienced spearman
veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar kumar Has added a lot of value to RCB’s bowling attack in 2025. The ability to swing the new ball and execute Yorks at the death brought control and consistency to the bowling unit. In a season where fast bowlers played a crucial role, Bhuvneshwar’s experience and adaptability stood out.
Despite being the top player in the league, he remains fit, focused and as effective as ever. Mentoring young bowlers like Zakary Foulkes was instrumental in shaping RCB’s championship winning campaign. For RCB, BHUVNESHWAR provides both leadership and depth in the PACE attack.
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