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as and when IPL 2026 Mini-auction is approaching, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Is in a unique situation. the team has Virat Kohli And Josh Hazlewood Like maintaining a strong core of players, which has created a solid foundation. However, they only have a balance of Rs 16.4 crore and eight available slots (which include two overseas players), meaning their strategy must be full of precision, with impact players being prioritized, rather than overspending on big names.

RCB’s focus will be on filling specific strategic holes: an effective Indian wrist-spinner, a high-impact overseas fast bowler, and strengthening the depth of the Indian middle-order. Let’s take a look at the players who could be on RCB’s radar and understand the strategic logic behind each target.

5 players on whom RCB can bid in IPL 2026 auction

1. Cameron Green

Green is a rare, match-winning package that combines power-hitting, seam bowling and excellent fielding. The availability of Green, who was previously a part of the RCB setup, makes him an immediate target.

• Why does RCB need him: He provides stability and striking ability in the middle-order, and his bowling is an important high-pace option.
• IPL Career: M : 29 | Runs: 707 @ 41.59 (SR: 153.70) Wickets: 16 (Eco: 9.05)
• challenge: With other franchises also eyeing him, Green’s price tag could eat up half or more of RCB’s balance sheet. Signing him would be an all-or-nothing move, which could prevent big spending on other overseas slots.

2. Enrich Nortje

The South African fast bowler is one of the most feared fast bowlers in T20 cricket, known for his blistering pace and ability to deliver in the final overs.

• Why does RCB need him: Josh Hazlewood Despite retaining the form, RCB often require a world-class backup or partner who can handle the pressure of the final overs, especially on the small Chinnaswamy ground. Nortje will provide immediate pace and needed experience.
• IPL Career: M : 48 | Wickets: 69 @ 27.16 (Eco: 9.07) | Best: 3/33
• challenge: Nortje, who is listed in the highest base price category (INR 2 crore), will attract high bids from teams who are desperate for a specialist overseas fast bowler. Due to RCB’s limited funds, it will be extremely difficult to secure them without spending too much.

3. Ravi Bishnoi

A wrist-spinner is a luxury in T20 cricket, and Bishnoi is one of the Indian talents. While RCB have spin options, a world-class, wicket-taking leg-spinner offers a different dimension.

• Why does RCB need him: He provides an effective attacking option in the middle overs, fulfilling the control role provided by all-rounders. His high-value retention status with another franchise indicates high confidence in his ability.
• IPL Career: M : 77 | Wickets: 72 @ 31.07 (Eco: 8.22) | Best: 3/24
• challenge: Bishnoi has set his base price at the maximum Indian price (INR 2 crore). While he fills a key need, his cost means RCB will have to weigh his value carefully against other domestic targets.

4. Sarfaraz Khan

After a strong domestic T20 season, Sarfaraz Khan The value is increasing. Having played for RCB before, he understands the environment and can add significant depth and strength to the Indian batting unit.

• Why does RCB need him: He is a dynamic player who can steady an innings or accelerate towards the end, filling the need for a reliable, high-potential Indian middle-order finisher. He represents a potentially high-return investment at a lower cost than international stars.
• IPL Career: M : 50 | Run: 585 @ 22.05 (SR: 130.59) | Highest: 67
• Benefit: Targeting Sarfaraz is a fiscally responsible way of bolstering the Indian core.

5. Rahul Tripathi

Tripathi is a versatile and aggressive top-order/middle-order Indian batsman who brings a high strike rate and extensive IPL experience across multiple franchises.

• Why does RCB need him: If RCB is looking for stability or a backup Indian opener/number three who can make the most of the powerplay, then Tripathi is perfect for the role. His ability to score quickly and handle fast bowling makes him a valuable domestic asset.
• IPL Career: M : 100 | Runs: 2,291 @ 26.03 (SR: 137.85) | Highest: 93
• Benefit: Like Sarfaraz, Tripathi can be acquired relatively cheaply, which will help save precious funds for RCB to spend on a big foreign player.