RCB Trade for IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer enter, Liam Livingstone out
RCB Trade for IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) just won the IPL 2025 title, their strategy for the IPL 2026 trade window will likely be focused on fine-tuning their already successful squad rather than a major overhaul. RCB Trade for IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer enter, Liam Livingstone out.
Good teams often look to strengthen even after a championship, addressing any minor weaknesses or finding players who can add more depth and versatility. Here are some potential areas and players RCB might consider for trade in IPL 2026, based on recent reports and common IPL trade patterns:
Players RCB might look to acquire:
Venkatesh Iyer (All-rounder): There’s significant chatter about RCB’s long-standing interest in Venkatesh Iyer. Despite a less-than-stellar IPL 2025 for KKR, RCB’s coach Andy Flower has reportedly expressed that Iyer would thrive in RCB’s setup. A left-handed Indian all-rounder who can bat aggressively at the top or in the middle order and provide medium pace is a valuable asset. A potential swap deal involving Liam Livingstone has been rumored.
Glenn Phillips (Wicketkeeper-Batter/All-rounder): New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips is often on the radar for many teams due to his explosive hitting and ability to keep wickets. If RCB feels a need for more power in the middle order or a different wicketkeeping option, Phillips could be a target, especially if he’s not getting consistent game time with his current franchise.
Mukesh Kumar (Pacer): While RCB has strong overseas pacers in Hazlewood and Ngidi, and a promising Indian option in Yash Dayal, adding another quality Indian pacer, especially one who can swing the ball and provide good death bowling, is always beneficial. Mukesh Kumar, known for his swing and control, could be a target to bolster their domestic pace attack and potentially offer a different dimension on Chinnaswamy’s home pitch.
Abhinav Manohar (Batter): As a local Karnataka player, Abhinav Manohar could be an attractive option for RCB to add a homegrown talent to their batting lineup. This would not only resonate with the local fan base but also provide a player with good knowledge of the home conditions.
A quality domestic spinner: While Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma are in the squad, teams often look for diverse spin options. If RCB identifies a domestic spinner who can provide more wicket-taking ability or control in the middle overs, they might explore a trade. Players like Rahul Chahar or Washington Sundar (if available) could be considered.
Another domestic top-order batsman (left-handed): To add variety to their batting order, especially if they want a left-handed option at the top or in the middle, RCB might consider trading for one.
Players RCB might consider trading out:
Liam Livingstone (All-rounder): Despite being a significant acquisition, if Livingstone had an underwhelming IPL 2025 season as some reports suggest, RCB might look to trade him to free up funds and an overseas slot. A potential swap for Venkatesh Iyer has been mentioned.
Nuwan Thushara (Pacer): If Thushara was benched for most of IPL 2025 and isn’t a regular feature in the playing XI with the strong pace attack RCB possesses, they might consider trading him to another team where he might get more opportunities. A swap for a player like Fazalhaq Farooqi has been speculated.
Manoj Bhandage (All-rounder): While a promising talent, if Manoj Bhandage didn’t get game time in IPL 2025, RCB might consider trading him for cash or a player who fits their immediate needs, especially if another team needs a domestic finisher.
Swastik Chikara (Batter): Similar to Bhandage, if he hasn’t featured prominently, RCB might look to trade him to manage their squad composition and salary cap.
General Trade Considerations for RCB:
Maintaining core strength: As champions, RCB will prioritize keeping their core successful players. Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (as captain), Josh Hazlewood, and other key performers are highly unlikely to be traded.
Trades are often driven by identified gaps or areas for improvement. RCB will analyze their performance in IPL 2025 to pinpoint any specific weaknesses they want to address through trades. Trades are also crucial for managing the salary cap. Releasing high-value players who haven’t performed can free up funds to acquire new talent.
The availability of suitable players from other teams and how well they fit into RCB’s team dynamics and playing style will be key factors. The IPL 2026 trade window will undoubtedly see a lot of activity, and while RCB just had a successful season, they will likely be active in the market to ensure they remain strong contenders.
