Royal Challengers Bangalore

RCB Women WPL 2026 full schedule, venues, timings announced

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 21:38:26 GMT

The Women's team of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB-W) is all set to start their Women's Premier League 2026 (WPL 2026) campaign on January 9 through a match against the defending champions, Mumbai Indians, at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Ahead of the fresh season of WPL, RCB-W has set up their new-look squad strongly on paper with only four retained players. Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh, and Shreyanka Patil are the only four players from the previous season who will be seen playing for the franchise in the upcoming season as well. Under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana, the team will try to conquer the league again. This time, the franchise officials have bolstered their squad with multiple batters and all-rounders.

The entire tournament will unfold across two venues: Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. The first eleven matches of the contest are scheduled to be arranged at the iconic D.Y. Patil Stadium, where the India Women's team recently won their maiden World Cup title. For the next eleven matches, focus will be shifted on Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Full Schedule

Match	Date	Venue
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians	January 9	Navi Mumbai
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz	January 12	Navi Mumbai
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants	January 16	Navi Mumbai
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals	January 17	Navi Mumbai
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants	January 19	Vadodara
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals	January 24	Vadodara
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians	January 26	Vadodara
Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz	January 29	Vadodara

RCB-W full squad for WPL 2026:

Players Retained: Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh, and Shreyanka Patil.

New Players: Lauren Bell, Pooja Vastrakar, Grace Harris, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Georgia Voll, Linsey Smith, Dayalan Hemalatha, Prema Rawat, Gautami Nayak, and Prathyoosha Kumar.

Chennai Super Kings hit 20 Million on Instagram, showcasing unmatched fan loyalty

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 18:52:36 GMT

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reached the remarkable achievement of 20 million followers on Instagram on November 15, 2025. The team now finds itself as one of the most-followed teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on social media, reinforcing CSK's status as more than a successful cricket franchise, but as a cultural institution bolstered by fierce loyalty of its supporters.

In its announcement, CSK credited its “Whistle Podu Army” of supporters and stated that its 20 million followers was proof of the “power of love, loyalty and LION PRIDE.” This seems appropriate because more than two decades, CSK has forged a bond with its supporters characterized by trust, consistency, emotional connection, and iconic players who left an indelible mark on the legacy of the franchise.

A Landmark Moment Celebrating the Bond Between CSK and the Whistle Podu Army

CSK's following is not an accident. Over the years, the franchise has achieved a deftness in entertaining its followers through a skillful combination of nostalgia, entertainment, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the team at work. From emotive tribute posts to players to carefully crafted humorous pieces featuring the squad, CSK has built an online experience for its fans to enjoy long after the cricket is in the rearview mirror.

ALSO SEE: Nishant Sindhu and Harshit Rana crush South Africa A for 132 all out in IND-A vs SA-A 2nd unofficial ODI

This milestone also occurs against the backdrop of increased competition between IPL franchises to extend their global digital presence. In May 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first IPL franchise to drive 20 million followers, with CSK now joining them at the highest tier, and demonstrating how India's highest T20 league is doing well not only competitively but also through various digital channels globally.

For CSK, the milestone is more than just a number; it embodies years of dedication, perseverance, and relationship with the fans from around the world. Whether it’s through memories of championship victories, the charm of beloved players, or mere nostalgia from great IPL seasons, the yellow brigade embodies the passion of the game in its purest form.

While CSK celebrates this incredible digital milestone, the path ahead only looks brighter. With an ever-expanding fan base and the Whistle Podu Army getting louder and prouder, CSK, time and again, demonstrates that CSK is not a team, but a family bonded by love, loyalty, and the roar of Lion Pride.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru retained and released players list ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 19:46:07 GMT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the reigning IPL champions, have announced their complete roster for IPL 2026. Following their first IPL trophy in 2025, RCB goes into the new season with confidence. RCB retained their core group of players as well as their senior star Virat Kohli & captain Rajat Patidar. They also have built good depth in batting, bowling and all-rounders.

RCB has released some big names in Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone and Lungi Ngidi. Livingstone was the most talked-about name because he was bought for ₹8.75 crore but scored only 112 runs and took just two wickets in 10 matches in IPL 2025. Due to his poor performance, the franchise decided to let him go.

Even though Livingstone is gone, RCB still have strong middle-order players. Tim David is in great form, Jitesh Sharma adds power-hitting, Romario Shepherd is a useful all-rounder, and Jacob Bethell is a rising young talent. They also have Krunal Pandya, who brings experience. Another important retention is Rasikh Dar Salam. He played only two matches last season and took one wicket but RCB still kept him for future plans.

RCB Retentions, Releases and Squad Update for IPL 2026

RCB have kept a strong core of batters, bowlers and all-rounders, which gives them stability for the next season. They released a few names to make way for the new signings in the mini-auction. With the mix of senior experienced players and young talent, RCB looks ready for the title defense.

The team enters the IPL 2026 mini-auction with ₹16.4 crore still available in their purse. This gives them enough money to buy one or two more important players if needed.

RCB Retained Players for IPL 2026

RCB have retained Rajat Patidar as captain, along with Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh and Suyash Sharma.

RCB Released Players for IPL 2026

The players released by RCB are Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi and Mohit Rathee.

RCB Remaining Purse for IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction with ₹16.4 crore remaining in their purse.

IPL 2026: RCB officially on sale! By this date franchise can get new owner

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:44:33 GMT

As per the previously published claims, IPL 2025 champion Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is all set to get a new owner, and the official process has already begun. In a 'disclosure,' Diageo, the owner of the IPL and WPL teams, reveals the massive step during a communication to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on Wednesday.

In the disclosure, the term 'Strategic Review of the Investment Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RCSPL)' is used, which can be elaborated in multiple ways. In general, it is now believed that the current owner of RCB has initiated the process to sell the franchise, which has a huge and loyal fan base. It is also reported that the franchise can get their new owner by March 31, 2026.

According to the report published by Cricbuzz, "It is official, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been put on sale. As per the disclosure made by the IPL franchise, Diageo—the owner of the IPL and WPL teams—has already initiated the sale process and is confident of completing the sale by March 31, 2026."

RCB officially on sell

"The USL is initiating a strategic review of the investment in its wholly owned subsidiary, RCSPL. RCSPL's business comprises ownership of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise team that participates in the men's Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women's Premier League (WPL) cricket tournaments hosted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) annually... It is expected the process will conclude by March 31, 2026," the company has stated in its disclosure.

🚨 OFFICIAL - BIG BREAKING NEWS 🚨

RCB owner United Spirits Ltd (USL) has decided to initiate strategic review of the investment in the "Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited"

The review set to be completed by March 31, 2026 pic.twitter.com/PX6iLLc5de
— The Khel India Cricket (@TKI_Cricket) November 5, 2025

After the tragic stampede inside in Bengaluru, where 11 fans lost their lives and several others were left injured during the trophy-winning celebration, the speculations of RCB being up for sale have been on social media platforms. After the incident, the franchise has been under pressure.

5 players RCB must retain ahead of WPL 2026 Auction ft. Smriti Mandhana

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:21:59 GMT

As the Women's Premier League (WPL) prepares for its fourth season, a major shake-up could be on the cards with the possible return of a mega auction in 2026. This move, reminiscent of the men’s IPL format, could see teams rebuilding their squads almost from scratch, retaining only a select few players while the rest return to the auction pool.

While the final rules regarding the number of retentions, auction purse, and right-to-match (RTM) cards are yet to be confirmed, every franchise will be strategizing carefully. For Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who finally tasted glory in the WPL, identifying their core group will be crucial to maintaining balance and momentum.

Here’s a look at five players RCB must retain ahead of the WPL 2026 auction.

1. Smriti Mandhana

An obvious choice, Smriti Mandhana remains the heartbeat of RCB. As captain and opener, she has led from the front with consistent performances and smart leadership. Her evolution as a batter and her ability to anchor or accelerate depending on the situation make her indispensable.

Having guided RCB to their maiden WPL title and continuing to shine at the international level, Mandhana embodies what the franchise stands for class, composure, and consistency. There’s no question that RCB will build their next cycle around her.

2. Richa Ghosh

Dynamic, fearless, and efficient, Richa Ghosh is one of the finest wicketkeeper-batters in the country. At just 22, she has already proven her worth in crunch situations, whether it’s finishing innings with power or keeping her cool behind the stumps.

Given the scarcity of high-quality Indian wicketkeepers in the women’s circuit, letting Ghosh go would be a huge risk. Her maturity and composure have made her an invaluable part of RCB’s middle order, and she is undoubtedly a long-term investment.

3. Ellyse Perry

When it comes to reliability and impact, Ellyse Perry is in a league of her own. A proven match-winner across formats, Perry has been the backbone of RCB’s batting order, combining elegance with consistency.

She was RCB’s top run-scorer and the second-highest overall in one of the earlier editions, averaging close to 65 with a healthy strike rate. Her performances in other leagues, like the WBBL and The Hundred, have shown she still has plenty to offer. RCB will know that replacing someone of Perry’s calibre from the auction pool would be almost impossible.

ALSO SEE: Delhi High Court dismisses PIL against BCCI using ‘Team India’ name

4. Sophie Molineux

Versatile and tactical, Sophie Molineux adds immense value as a left-arm spinner and lower-order batter. Her absence due to injury was a major blow for RCB in 2025, especially after her key role in their championship-winning 2024 campaign.

Recently, Molineux has continued to impress on the global stage, helping the Melbourne Renegades clinch the BBL 2024-25 title and delivering standout performances in the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup. Her ability to deliver breakthroughs and contribute with the bat makes her one of the smartest retentions RCB could make.

5. Shreyanka Patil

Shreyanka Patil’s rise has been one of RCB’s biggest success stories. The leading wicket-taker in the WPL 2024, she quickly established herself as one of India’s most exciting young spinners before injuries sidelined her in 2025.

Now back in action after featuring in the 2025 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Shreyanka is seen as a key piece in RCB’s future plans. Her blend of wicket-taking ability, energy, and aggression makes her a player around whom RCB can build their spin attack for years to come.

Honourable Mentions:

Georgia Wareham – Reliable leg-spinner and handy lower-order hitter.
Sneh Rana – Experienced Indian all-rounder with leadership traits.
Renuka Singh Thakur – Proven new-ball bowler capable of early breakthroughs.

Final Thoughts

With a potential mega auction on the horizon, Royal Challengers Bangalore face the tough task of balancing experience and youth. However, retaining the likes of Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, Sophie Molineux, and Shreyanka Patil would give them a stable and formidable core, one that can ensure sustained success and possibly more silverware in the seasons to come.

'Just Watched Kantara. Blown Away by the Magic' – KL Rahul praises Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:48:36 GMT

There is no escaping that the Kantara fever is back, and it is larger than life. Kantara: Chapter 1 has had the internet abuzz once more, with fans, filmmakers, and critics all praising the same. The earthy narrative of the film, grounded in Karnataka traditions, has won over audiences in India.

Even cricket’s calm and composed star, KL Rahul, has joined the fan club. Taking to his Instagram story, the stylish Indian batter couldn’t stop himself from praising Rishab Shetty’s masterpiece. “Just watched Kantara. Blown away by the magic @rishabshettyofficial has created yet again. All heart and beautifully represents the people and belief of Mangaluru,” KL wrote.

Rahul’s love for Kantara isn’t new. In IPL 2025, his celebrations against Royal Challengers Bengaluru provided glimpses of how the movie had seeped deep inside him. After the game ended with a six off Yash Dayal, Rahul took off his helmet, banged it onto the grass, and drew a circle with it, claiming his territory Kantara-style. A chest thump and a point to the ground made it clear: Chinnaswamy Stadium was still his den.

Kantara-Inspired Celebration and On-Field Brilliance

Rahul later explained the reason behind his celebration in a Delhi Capitals video. “This is a special place for me. This celebration was from one of my favourite movies, Kantara. So, a tiny reminder that this ground, this turf, this place where I grew up, is mine,” he said. The video went viral and turned Rahul’s Kantara-inspired celebration into one of the most talked-about moments of the IPL season.

KL RAHUL Instagram story on #KantaraChapter1 pic.twitter.com/JLSD6DK63f
— Santoshvk18 (@269signofff) October 6, 2025

Off the field, it is Kantara. On the field, it is pure class. Rahul has been in cracking form lately. After piling up 532 runs in 10 innings during India’s 2-2 Test series draw in England, he carried that momentum into the Test series against the West Indies. In the first Test, the right-hander scored a brilliant 100 off 197 balls, setting up India’s innings-and-140-run win. Now, with form, confidence, and a bit of Kantara energy behind him, Rahul will be eager to script another special chapter as the second Test begins on October 10 at Delhi, his IPL franchise’s home turf.

Allahabad High Court huge decision on Yash Dayal's sexual harrassment charges

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:45:45 GMT

In what comes as a major relief for Royal Challengers Bengaluru pacer Yash Dayal, the Allahabad High Court on Tuesday stayed his arrest in connection with a case filed against him for allegedly exploiting a woman over a five-year period. The FIR was registered on July 6 at the Indirapuram police station in Ghaziabad under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to sexual intercourse by employing deceitful means.

A bench comprising Justice Siddharth Varma and Anil Kumar heard the plea and granted a stay on the pacer’s arrest until the next date of listing. Yash Dayal had approached the court seeking protection from arrest after the complaint was filed. During the hearing, the bench questioned the woman’s allegations, remarking, “You could have been fooled for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days…but 5 years…you are entering into a relationship for 5 years…one can’t be fooled for 5 years.”

According to the woman, she and Yash met around five years ago, and he allegedly promised to marry her. She claimed that he kept delaying marriage while being involved with other women. Legal counsel Gopal Swaroop Chaturvedi, assisted by Gaurav Tripathi and Raghuvansh Mishra, appeared for Yash in the matter.

Yash Dayal Files Counter Complaint

In a parallel development, Yash Dayal has filed a complaint with the Prayagraj police, seeking an FIR against the same woman. He approached the Khuldabad police station, accusing her of theft and alleging she stole his iPhone and laptop. According to a report by NDTV, Yash stated that he first came in contact with her via Instagram four years ago.

Yash further alleged that the woman borrowed lakhs of rupees from him, citing medical emergencies involving herself and her family. He claimed that she promised to repay the amount but failed to do so, prompting him to take legal action.

Check out list of most valued IPL teams; Know where your favourite team stands

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 12:31:26 GMT

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has recorded a huge 12.9% increase in enterprise value to US$18.5 billion in 2025, according to Houlihan Lokey's recent IPL Brand Valuation Study. The standalone brand value of the league also went up by 13.8% to US$3.9 billion, solidifying its status as one of the world's most valuable and impactful sports leagues.

This sustained growth finds expression in commercial success too. The sale of four associate-sponsor places by the BCCI — My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay, and CEAT—amounted to ₹1,485 crore, a 25% rise over the earlier cycle. The Tata Group also extended its title sponsorship of the IPL until 2028 under a US$300 million (₹2,500 crore) deal.

RCB Shoots Up to Number One, CSK Falls to Third

In a wide-scale overhaul of franchise brand values, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was the top-ranked franchise with a brand value of US$269 million, an increase from US$227 million the previous year. RCB's upsurge came on the back of their record first title victory in 2025, ending a 17-year drought. Leadership change by the team—to appoint Rajat Patidar as captain while holding on to Virat Kohli in a significant batting position—proved to be the turning point in finding a balance between renewal and continuity.

Mumbai Indians went up to the second spot with a brand value of US$242 million. Their stability and strategic realignment, such as Rohit Sharma taking on the new role of an impact player, ensured their brand strength remained intact. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped to third at US$235 million following a poor season, despite the presence of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who was back as skipper after Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered a mid-season injury.

Punjab Kings (PBKS), the runners-up, had the strongest year-over-year brand growth at 39.6%, fueled by their run to the finals with new captain Shreyas Iyer. Lucknow Super Giants trailed more than 34% growth.

Record-Breaking Viewership and Media Success

IPL 2025 broke viewership records on both digital and television platforms. JioHotstar attracted 1,370 million views in the first weekend, March 22–24, with year-on-year growth of 35%, 340 million peak concurrent users, and 21,860 million minutes watched. Star Sports had 253 million TV views, up 14%, adding up to a total watch time of 49,560 million minutes.

RCB versus PBKS was the most-viewed final in IPL history, with more than 678 million views on JioHotstar—more than even India vs. Pakistan during the ICC Championship this year.

Expert Views on IPL's Financial Ecosystem

"The IPL continues to raise the bar in sports business. Franchise valuations have gone through the roof, media rights transactions have hit all-time highs, and brand sponsorships have expanded into diversified industries," added Harsh Talikoti, Director at Houlihan Lokey. “The league’s ability to attract global investors and sponsors reflects its status as a premier sports property with enduring appeal. In summary, the IPL represents a high-yield multi-asset class with diversified risks and a catalyst for cricket’s global transformation.”

Talikoti emphasized that IPL’s blueprint—supported by OTT penetration, multi-generational youth audiences, international awareness, and growth through new leagues and franchisees—is molding the future of cricket globally.

Satish Menon, CEO of Punjab Kings, concurred:

“From day one, we saw IPL as more than a cricket league. It was a scalable business model with high visibility, secure revenue streams, and strong brand-building potential. It was a heady mix of sports and entertainment, which eventually had the potential to deliver huge audiences and revenues.”

He added, “We now operate with the mindset of a media-sport brand with multiple revenue verticals, not just a cricket team. That’s where real profitability lies. Over time, we have built a sustainable sports business that spans multiple leagues, drives platform-level content, attracts global brands, and creates IPs that outlast a season.”

Franchise Rankings and Outlook

RCB – US$269M (1st): Brand and business success topped by 2025 title triumph.
MI – US$242M (2nd): Strategic evolution keeps brand relevant.
CSK – US$235M (3rd): Transitional season despite Dhoni’s presence.
KKR – US$227M (4th): Decline in brand momentum post Shreyas Iyer’s exit.
SRH – US$154M (5th): Inconsistency offset a star-studded lineup.
DC – US$152M (6th): Stable mid-table brand performance.
RR – US$146M (7th): Youth focus boosted fan interest.
GT – US$142M (8th): Slight dip post initial success years.
PBKS – US$141M (9th): Highest YoY growth with finals appearance.
LSG – US$122M (10th): Strong growth following brand-building initiatives.

Houlihan Lokey's Corporate Valuation Advisory Services continues to counsel stakeholders in M&A, tax planning, and financial reporting, with the IPL's growth being a marquee poster child for sports-business synergy.

Another allegation on RCB star: Yash Dayal "Used Money, Fame And Power To Cover-Up" harassment case

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:58:06 GMT

Fresh allegations have emerged against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Yash Dayal, following earlier accusations made by a woman from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The woman had previously accused the 27-year-old cricketer of emotional, mental, and physical exploitation under the promise of marriage. In her latest claims, she has alleged that Dayal had multiple affairs during their four-and-a-half-year relationship and used his money, fame, and influence to try and cover up the matter.

"I stayed at Yash Dayal's house for 15 days. He even took me on a trip to Ooty. I have been at his home many times and have spent time with his family. Yash Dayal and his family kept raising hopes by giving assurance of marriage," the woman claimed, as reported by Dainik Bhaskar. She also stated that she has connected with another woman who said she was similarly deceived by Dayal.

The woman further alleged, "Yash Dayal has made attempts to manipulate the case with money, but I have full faith in the law. The police have said that Yash Dayal has been sent a notice." She revealed that another woman contacted her on April 17, 2025, and shared proof of Dayal being involved with multiple women, confirming her earlier doubts.

“I Left It to God, But Then His Family Spoke Badly,” Says Complainant

The complainant has claimed that she is aware of at least three other women with whom Dayal had affairs. "I could have walked away, but how would I know he was cheating? He never showed it. I left it to God, but when his family started speaking badly about me, I decided to take legal steps," she said.

"I had left him to God's mercy, but after that Yash Dayal and his family spoke very badly. There is a thing called self-respect in love, which girls lose. I am also fighting for the little girl to whom Yash Dayal did wrong. Yash Dayal is hiding; let him stay hidden. This is what his family and he have done," she added. On the cricket front, Dayal recently lifted the IPL 2025 title with RCB and was also part of India's Test squad in 2024.

Big Breaking! RCB list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:31:10 GMT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally ended the 17-year wait for an IPL title on Tuesday (June 3), making history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final of the IPL 2025. The win was a long-awaited breakthrough for the franchise, with several players coming on strong throughout the season.

But although the victory was theirs, not all members of their squad contributed meaningfully. Some players either did not convert their chances or did not even play, prompting very heavy speculation that RCB might let them go before the IPL 2026 auction, likely later this year or early next year.

1. Nuwan Thushara

Sri Lankan bowler Nuwan Thushara was retained for ₹1.5 crore in the 2025 IPL auction. He played only one match, against the Lucknow Super Giants, where he bowled tightly and took 1 wicket for 26 runs from his four-over spell. Although he performed well, Thushara was kept on the bench because of the availability of senior overseas pacers. RCB can consider releasing him to create space for more cricket-balanced bowling personnel.

2. Lungi Ngidi

Lungi Ngidi appeared in two games for RCB in IPL 2025 and took four wickets. But he leaked runs at a costly economy rate of 10.12 and was not available for the playoffs because of international commitments. Though his strike power is a plus point, his inconsistency and injury record are an area of concern. RCB might release him to accommodate more reliable overseas bowlers.

3. Blessing Muzarabani

Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani played not a single match in IPL 2025 even after being in the squad. His function was to be a seamer on call, but he was never given the opportunity because of a settled bowling attack. With no contribution and with experience being limited for him in high-pressure leagues, the chances of his retention are bleak. RCB can release him to look for more energetic backup possibilities.

4. Rasikh Dar

J&K pacer Rasikh Dar was purchased at ₹6 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. He featured in two games—against KKR and GT—but didn't make a mark, taking just one wicket while giving away runs at a rate of more than 11 runs per over. After sitting out the remainder of the tournament, it was evident he wasn't part of RCB's major schemes. Given his hefty price tag, release now appears a certainty.

5. Swastik Chikara

Swastik Chikara sat on the bench for the entire duration of IPL 2025. The young left-hand hitter could not find a place in RCB's potent top and middle order, which included consistent performers. Having no match minutes and minimal contribution to the team dynamics, his retention does not make sense. RCB could let him go and sign a more experienced domestic player.

6. Swapnil Singh

Swapnil Singh, the veteran left-arm spinner, did not find a game in RCB's championship-winning 2025 season. Though his experience is worth the bench, the team banked more on all-rounders and aggressive spinners throughout the season. With fresh and younger spin talent rising, Swapnil's chances of being retained seem thin. He could be released prior to the next auction.