IPL 2026 Auction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Released Players List

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 17-year wait for the IPL trophy in 2025, scripting one of the most memorable title wins in the league’s history.

Their campaign was dominant, especially away from home, where they remained unbeaten. But even for a champion side, there’s room for improvement and ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, RCB might look to release a few underperforming names to build an even stronger squad.

Here are three players who could be on the release list before the mini-auction.

Liam Livingstone

England’s hard-hitting batter Liam Livingstone could be the first name RCB decides to part ways with. Despite his reputation as a power-hitter, Livingstone managed just 112 runs in 10 matches at an average of 16 in IPL 2025.

With Tim David and Romario Shepherd already excelling in similar roles, RCB may find it hard to retain the Englishman, who struggled to deliver consistent middle-order performances.

Rasikh Salam

Right-arm pacer Rasikh Salam played only two matches last season, taking a single wicket and leaking runs at an expensive economy rate.

Despite being part of four IPL franchises over the years, Salam has yet to cement his place. With better Indian bowling options in the squad, RCB might release him to create room for a more reliable pacer.

Nuwan Thushara

Sri Lankan seamer Nuwan Thushara barely featured in IPL 2025, playing just one game. His form in international cricket hasn’t been convincing either, as he often went for runs in key overs. Given his limited opportunities and lack of impact, RCB are unlikely to retain him for the next season.