RCB Trade 7 players for IPL 2026: Top players name in list

RCB Trade: The IPL 2026 season is generating a lot of buzz, especially with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) having recently clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025! While they’ll likely look to maintain a strong core, teams always seek to refine their squads through trades and auctions.

Here’s a look at the likely trade strategy for RCB and some players who are being rumored as potential targets or those who might be traded out:

IPL 2026 Auction and Trade Window:

Mini-Auction: IPL 2026 is expected to have a mini-auction, not a mega auction. This means teams will primarily look to fine-tune their squads rather than rebuild from scratch.

Trade Window: The trade window is currently open (it began around June 10, 2025, after the IPL 2025 final and closes seven days before the 2026 auction). Teams can trade players for cash or in player swaps. Player consent is mandatory for any trade.

Retention Rules (for mini-auction): Unlike a mega auction where teams might have limited retentions, in a mini-auction, teams typically retain most of their core players, releasing only those who didn’t perform or are deemed surplus.

RCB’s Potential Trade Strategy & Target Areas:

Despite winning the IPL 2025 trophy, good teams always look to strengthen. RCB’s key areas of focus for improvement might include:

1. Adding a Left-Handed Indian Batter in the Top Order: This has been a consistent point of discussion for RCB. They might look for someone who can bat at opener or number 3 to provide a left-right combination and stability.

2. Strengthening Pace Attack: While they improved their pace department, adding more depth and an express pace option, especially an Indian one, is always valuable for Chinnaswamy’s conditions.

3. Enhancing Middle-Order Firepower: While their current middle order performed well, bringing in another strong finisher or power-hitter could add more depth.

4. Local Talent: Acquiring local Karnataka players can boost fan appeal and provide valuable knowledge of home conditions.

Players RCB Might Target in Trades:

Based on recent reports and strategic needs, here are some players being linked with RCB as potential trade targets:

Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders): This is a strong rumor. RCB reportedly showed keen interest in him in the IPL 2025 mega auction. He’s a left-handed Indian top-order batter and handy medium pacer. If KKR decides to release him due to his high price tag and inconsistent form, RCB could pursue a trade deal, possibly involving a player swap.

Abhinav Manohar (Sunrisers Hyderabad): A local Bangalore talent, Abhinav is a right-handed batter with part-time leg-spin. He offers familiarity with home conditions and could be a long-term prospect for RCB, especially if SRH reshuffles its squad.

Glenn Phillips (Gujarat Titans): A powerful middle-order hitter, Phillips has shown glimpses of his potential but hasn’t had consistent IPL opportunities. RCB’s penchant for aggressive batting could make him a good fit if he seeks a change of team.

Mukesh Kumar (Delhi Capitals): RCB’s pace attack could benefit from Mukesh Kumar’s new-ball skills and control. If Delhi Capitals look to re-model their core, Mukesh could be a valuable addition for RCB’s seam unit.

Players RCB Might Consider Trading Out/Releasing:

While RCB just won the title, some players might be considered for trade if they didn’t perform as expected or if RCB sees a better fit for their strategy:

Phil Salt: Despite a good IPL 2025 season with RCB, reports suggest he might be considered for a trade, possibly in exchange for a left-handed batter like Venkatesh Iyer. This would be primarily to address the left-handed top-order void.

Liam Livingstone: Livingstone had a below-par IPL 2025 season for RCB. If they feel he’s not providing the desired returns for his price tag, he could be part of a trade deal or potentially released to free up purse value.

Swastik Chikara: If he didn’t get opportunities and the team management doesn’t see a long-term role, he could be considered for a trade to another franchise where he might get more game time.

Other squad players: Teams often release or trade players who haven’t consistently made it into the playing XI or those who can fetch a good value in a trade to optimize their squad composition and purse.

It’s important to remember that these are speculations and rumors circulating in the lead-up to the IPL 2026 trade window and auction. Official announcements will come from the franchises and the IPL governing body.

Also Read: IPL 2026 Big Trade: Ruturaj Gaikwad to RR, Sanju Samson to CSK