The wait is over! 🎉 After 18 long years, RCB finally lifted their first-ever IPL trophy in 2025—a moment every fan will remember forever.
But now, the big question is: Who will stay, and who will go?
Will fan favourites like Liam Livingstone be shown the exit door?
Will young talents like Rasikh Salam Dar get another chance?
And what about Lungi Ngidi—will RCB keep him after just two matches?
You can join us on our Telegram Channel and YouTube Channels for final updates.
3 Players RCB Might Release Before IPL 2026
After an incredible victory in IPL 2025, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their first-ever trophy after 18 long years, the team is now planning for the next season.
To build a stronger squad, they may release a few players who didn’t perform well in IPL 2025.
Here’s a look at three players who might be released by RCB before IPL 2026:
Liam Livingstone
Why RCB Bought Him?
RCB signed Liam Livingstone for a huge amount of ₹8.75 crore, hoping he would be a game-changer with his batting and bowling skills.
Performance in IPL 2025
- Played 10 matches but scored only 112 runs.
- His highest score was 54 against the Gujarat Titans.
- Failed to make an impact in most matches.
- Bowled in only 4 matches, taking just 2 wickets.
Why RCB Might Release Him?
- Inconsistent batting performance.
- Did not contribute much with the ball.
- RCB might look for a more reliable all-rounder in his place.
Who Can Replace Him?
RCB could target younger Indian all-rounders or look for a foreign player who can perform consistently.
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Rasikh Salam Dar
Why RCB Bought Him?
RCB bought Rasikh Salam Dar for ₹6 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, expecting him to strengthen their Indian bowling lineup.
Performance in IPL 2025
- Played only 2 matches.
- Gave away 35 runs and took just 1 wicket.
- Did not get enough chances to prove himself.
Why RCB Might Release Him?
- Very few opportunities were given to him.
- RCB might prefer investing in young Indian bowlers who can perform better.
- His economy rate was high, which is a concern.
Who Can Replace Him?
RCB might look for emerging Indian pacers from domestic cricket who can bowl economically and take wickets.
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Lungi Ngidi
Why RCB Bought Him?
RCB picked Lungi Ngidi at his base price of ₹1 crore, hoping he would add pace and experience to their bowling attack.
Performance in IPL 2025
- Played only 2 matches.
- Had a good debut against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
- Struggled in the next match vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), giving away 51 runs and taking just 1 wicket.
Why RCB Might Release Him?
- Inconsistent performances.
- RCB already has strong fast bowlers like Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvi Kumar.
- They might prefer a more reliable backup bowler.
Who Can Replace Him?
RCB could look for a young Indian fast bowler or an experienced overseas pacer who can bowl well in death overs.
What’s Next for RCB?
After winning their first IPL title in 2025, RCB will want to build a stronger squad for IPL 2026.
Releasing these players could free up more funds to buy better performers in the auction.
Possible Strategies for RCB:
- Focus on young Indian talent – Investing in domestic players can be a smart move.
- Find consistent overseas players – Instead of big names, RCB might look for reliable performers.
- Strengthen the middle order – They need batsmen who can stabilise the innings.
Final Thoughts
While Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Salam Dar, and Lungi Ngidi have talent, their performances in IPL 2025 were not up to the mark.
RCB might release them to make space for better players in the squad.
Fans will be excited to see which new players RCB picks in the 2026 auction to defend their title!