RCB's strongest XI for IPL 2026: Kohli to open, Padikkal vs Iyer in focus
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have retained a strong core of 17 players for IPL 2026, entering the season as titleholders for the first time. The predicted playing XI features a blend of established stars and new additions, with Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar (C) leading the charge.
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have retained a strong core of 17 players and made targeted additions in the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi. For the first time in their history, RCB will enter an IPL season as defending champions. Here’s a look at RCB’s predicted Playing XI and Impact Player for IPL 2026: Virat Kohli: The veteran batter will continue in his opening role for RCB, riding on his red-hot IPL form.
Having already crossed the 9000-run milestone, Kohli remains crucial in providing aggressive starts during the powerplay. Phil Salt: Phil Salt was a key figure in RCB’s title-winning campaign last season, consistently giving the team explosive starts. However, he could face competition from Jacob Bethell, who impressed in the T20 World Cup, including a century against India at Wankhede.
Devdutt Padikkal: Devdutt Padikkal is expected to play a pivotal role at No. 3, acting as the bridge between the explosive opening pair and the middle order. While he is likely to be the first-choice option, he will face competition from Venkatesh Iyer, who was bought for Rs 7 crore in the auction.
Rajat Patidar (C): Rajat Patidar will continue as captain after leading RCB to their historic maiden IPL title. Alongside his leadership, his impact as a powerful middle-order batter will remain vital for the team. Jitesh Sharma (WK): One of RCB’s unsung heroes, Jitesh Sharma played crucial knocks last season, including a standout innings against LSG.