How did RCB spend their ₹16.40 crore in IPL Mini Auction 2026?

Prachi Rajan

Players bought by RCB in the IPL 2026 auction (X.com/@CricketNew73688)Players bought by RCB in the IPL 2026 auction (X.com/@CricketNew73688)

The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), entered the IPL 2026 mini auction, requiring 8 (maximum) players to complete their 25-member squad for the upcoming season. With a purse value of ₹16.40 crore, RCB made it the case to buy names like Venkatesh Iyer and Jacob Duffy to fine-tune their trophy-worthy lineup.   

Thus, RCB settled their core despite a small auction purse. That said, let's take a look at the tally of players acquired by RCB in the IPL auction in Abu Dhabi. 

1. Venkatesh Iyer (Rs 7 crore)

Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer experienced a dramatic swing in fortunes at the IPL 2026 bidding on Tuesday, as RCB outbid Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-octane contest to acquire his services. The former KKR batter will be a versatile option for the defending champions, aiming for back-to-back titles. 

2. Jacob Duffy (Rs 2 crore)

2025 has been a dream run for the New Zealand pacer, Jacob Duffy, from the small town of Lumsden. Hailing from a 530-person village, Duffy secured his maiden IPL deal as RCB secured him for INR 2 Cr. Ranked No.2 in ICC T20I bowling rankings, Duffy certainly is the best bargain the Bangalore-based franchise bought. 

3. Satvik Deswal (Rs 30 lakh)

Moving on, RCB strengthened their spin contingent by getting the Puducherry's Satvik Deswal for the base price of Rs 30 lakh. Known for his consistency, the 18-year-old slow left-arm orthodox could be a huge asset to the team if well groomed. 

4. Mangesh Yadav (Rs 5.2 crore)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru paid Rs. 5.2 crore for an uncapped left-arm pacer, Mangesh Yadav. With a sharp yorker, the 24-year-old emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the MP T20 League, gaining the trust of RCB management. 

5. Jordan Cox (Rs 75 lakh)

English wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox is an aggressive T20 hitter with a first-class average in the 40s. Cox is almost as well known for his fielding, notably for helping pull off a spectacular relay catch as Kent won the final of the 2021 T20 Blast. RCB secured him for a Rs 75 lakh price tag. 

6. Vicky Ostwal (Rs 30 lakh)

From Lonavala to the limelight, Vicky Ostwal's hardwork and resilience finally paid off when the one-time title-winning franchise secured him for Rs 30 lakh. RCB added another left-arm spinner to their contingent with this addition. 

7. Vihaan Malhotra (Rs 30 lakh)

After showcasing solid performances with both bat and ball in the U19 Asia Cup 2025, Vihaan Malhotra has been bought by the 'Bold Army' for the 19th edition of IPL. A reliable middle-order batsman with a batting average of 32.5, Vihaan also contributes effectively with his bowling, maintaining an economy rate of 5.8 runs per over.

8. Kanishk Chouhan (Rs 30 lakh)

Another U19 star in the tally, Kanishk Chouhan, is an all-rounder, bought by RCB in the IPL 2026 auction at a base price of Rs 30 lakh. Known for his aggressive batting style, Kanishk has a batting average of 28.4 and a bowling economy of 6.1. His ability to strike quickly with the bat and bowl economical spells makes him a valuable asset.