Buying back Akash Deep and...? 5 Indian pacers RCB might target in IPL 2026 auction



 5 Indian fast bowlers for RCB [Source: @RCBTweets, @Akash_Madhwal45/X.com] 5 Indian fast bowlers for RCB [Source: @RCBTweets, @Akash_Madhwal45/X.com]

RCB, reigning IPL champions, will be approaching the IPL 2026 mini-auction with a calm and comfortable mindset. Their core, which led them to their maiden IPL title in 2025, is settled and retained.

Still, Bengaluru have over ₹16 crores to spend. So, the management's main focus will be to find quality backups.

To those unversed, Yash Dayal is facing serious sexual assault charges off the field. In case things go south, Bengaluru might have to cut him loose. 

Moreover, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is 35 and might not be reliable for the whole season. Hence, here are 5 domestic fast bowlers RCB must target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

1. Akash Madhwal

1. Akash Madhwal [Source: @mipaltan/X.com]1. Akash Madhwal [Source: @mipaltan/X.com]

Criterion
IPL
T20s
Matches1756
Wickets2361
Average25.6527.88
Economy10.059.14
Best bowling figure5/55/5

(Table: Akash Madhwal's stats in IPL and domestic T20s)

  • Right-arm medium pacer from Uttarakhand, Akash Madhwal, is expected to be the top pick at the upcoming auction. Having played for MI and RR in the past, Madhwa has 23 wickets in 17 IPL games, including a fifer that he picked in his maiden stint with Mumbai.
  • Madhwal is skilful and effective with the new ball. His control in the death overs is still a work in progress. 
  • But in a team like RCB, with experienced pacers around, he could focus on his strengths upfront. At a reasonable price, Madhwal is the most ideal pick for the defending champions.

2. Akash Deep

2. Akash Deep [Source: @CRICkEt__360_/X.com]2. Akash Deep [Source: @CRICkEt__360_/X.com]

Criterion
IPL
T20s
Matches1453
Wickets1059
Average54.8026.23
Economy11.828.32
Best bowling figure3/453/45

(Table: Akash Deep's stats in IPL and domestic T20s)

  • Another reunion which makes sense for RCB is Akash Deep. A right-arm pacer with significant experience, especially in the Test format, Deep has the temperament.
  • He played for LSG last year and overall has 10 wickets in 14 IPL games. 
  • While Akash Deep may not have express pace, his accuracy and ability to absorb pressure make him an ideal supporting seamer in a balanced attack.

3. Auqib Nabi

3. Auqib Nabi [Source: @JunaidKhanation/X.com]3. Auqib Nabi [Source: @JunaidKhanation/X.com]

Criterion
T20s
Matches34
Wickets43
Average21.81
Economy7.74
Best bowling figure4/16

(Table: Auqib Nabi's stats in domestic T20s)

  • The dynamic right-arm pacer from J&K, Auqib Nabi, has grabbed a lot of eyeballs as multiple franchises have called him for trials. 
  • Despite a lack of experience in IPL, Nabi is a seasoned domestic performer with over 125 wickets in first-class cricket and 43 wickets in T20s. 
  • Auqib Nabi angles the ball across right-handers, which could be a tactical advantage. If he maintains discipline in death overs, Nabi could be a game-changer pick for RCB. Even in the case of intense bidding wars, RCB has the financial cushion to go all out.

4. Kamlesh Nagarkoti

4. Kamlesh Nagarkoti [Source: @KKRiders/X.com]4. Kamlesh Nagarkoti [Source: @KKRiders/X.com]

Criterion
IPL
T20s
Matches1239
Wickets540
Average57.0025.35
Economy9.507.94
Best bowling figure2/133/14

(Table: Kamlesh Nagarkoti's stats in IPL and domestic T20s)

  • Kamlesh Nagarkoti is quickly becoming a case of ‘what could have been'. He initially made waves for his express pace during the U19 World Cup. But injuries massively impacted his career.
  • KKR cut him loose after a few seasons, but it’s time for RCB to bet on him. Nagarkoti has a proven ability to bowl at 140+ kph consistently. He can generate bounce and become a threat with the new ball.
  • RCB could use Kamlesh Nagarkoti as a strike bowler, particularly in powerplays or as an impact player.

5. Simarjeet Singh

5. Simarjeet Singh [Source: @SunRisers/X.com]5. Simarjeet Singh [Source: @SunRisers/X.com]

Criterion
IPL
T20s
Matches1442
Wickets11
47
Average36.3624.93
Economy10.008.73
Best bowling figure3/263/16

(Table: Simarjeet Singh's stats in IPL and domestic T20s)

  • Right-arm medium pacer Simarjeet Singh is another emerging talent to have played 14 IPL games for CSK and SRH. He picked up 11 wickets with a 10.00 economy. In T20 domestic tournaments, Singh has 47 wickets in 42 games.
  • With a tall frame and aggressive bowling style, he can trouble batters with short-pitched deliveries and sharp yorkers.
  • For RCB, Simarjeet Singh could play the role of a second or third seamer, providing aggression in the powerplay and occasionally at the death.