Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) concluded their 18-year title drought by winning their first IPL trophy in 2025, defeating Punjab Kings in a thrilling final. RCB showed tremendous resilience, incidentally, overcoming a shaky start to the season, but they also found the right balance for their team, anchored with impactful senior players and budding stars when it counted most. However, even title-winning teams must evolve, especially with the mega auction not too far away. RCB may remain on top by being even more inclusive in depth and tactical flexibility through trades next year. Specifically, RCB should add more left-handers, spin options, and young Indian talent. Below are three players RCB should target in trades for IPL 2026.

3. Mahipal Lomror

Lomror was a member of the RCB franchise from 2022 to 2024 and contributed well with the bat. During IPL 2025, he was signed by Gujarat Titans for ₹1.7 crore but didn't play a single match. Lomror is a left-handed batter capable of bowling left-arm spin, which allows the team greater balance and flexibility. Lomror had impressive strike rates as a finisher, where he had a strike rate of 183.82 in the first half of 2024. RCB particularly suffers from a lack of left-handed batting talent since their playing XI only has Krunal Pandya and Devdutt Padikkal as left-handed batters. Lomror's comeback would provide them with improved balance and a trusty domestic asset. With his familiarity with the team, this would be a shrewd and unproblematic exchange.

2. Smaran Ravichandran

Smaran Ravichandran, a left-handed 22-year-old batter from Karnataka, is a domestic upstart. Sunrisers Hyderabad bought him as a replacement in IPL 2025 but did not play him because of injury. But look at his domestic T20 stats—170 runs in 6 games at a strike rate of 170 with a half-century. His attacking style and local attachment may make him an ideal fit for RCB. SRH possesses an established top order, which might make Ravichandran available for trade. His inclusion would bring vigor and variety to RCB's batting. Being a left-hander, he also adds strength to the lineup strategically.

Also Read: Mumbai T20 2025: Points Table, leading run scorers and wicket takers after SBMF vs ETS Match 16

1. Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar provides significant value as an all-round spinner, able to bowl tight off-spin and score brisk runs. In IPL 2025, he was impressive with a strike rate of 166.25 and kept his career economy below 8. Having been with RCB previously from 2018 to 2021, he knows the team ethos. Sundar might provide a good complement to Krunal Pandya's left-arm spin, providing RCB's spin control. He also provides depth in batting, providing a floating role if required. If Gujarat Titans are willing to trade him, Sundar would be a high-impact signing. His all-around quality is tailor-made for the changing needs of RCB.