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Kohli Quits IPL Before 2026: If It Happens, What Would Be RCB's Trade And Auction Strategy

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Virat Kohli [Source: @THA7A_Fanboy, @Kohli_Beliver18/x.com]Virat Kohli [Source: @THA7A_Fanboy, @Kohli_Beliver18/x.com]

After years of unwavering loyalty, record-breaking performances, and finally securing the elusive IPL title in 2025, Virat Kohli stands at a significant turning point. Having already said a big farewell to Test and T20I cricket, speculation is rife: Was the 2025 IPL title the swansong?

If Kohli were to retire before the 2026 season, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) would face more than just an on-field challenge - it would mark the beginning of a bold new chapter. Here is an in-depth look at how such a decision would impact the franchise and what steps RCB could take in response.

A Void Larger Than the Scorecard

Virat Kohli is not merely a player for RCB - he is their identity. Since his debut in 2008, he has remained the franchise's most enduring and iconic figure. In the 2025 season, he amassed 657 runs, playing a pivotal role in guiding RCB to their maiden IPL title.

His sudden retirement would leave behind:

  • A leadership chasm – Even without the captaincy, Kohli's presence in the dressing room has remained integral.
  • A strategic hole at the top of the order – As a dependable opener, his contributions often anchored the innings.
  • A brand identity crisis – Kohli is the face of RCB's merchandising, fan loyalty, and marketing. Replacing that charisma would be no small task.

The ₹21 Crore Equation: Budget Reimagined

Kohli's current IPL salary of ₹21 crores would immediately become available - offering RCB a rare opportunity to invest heavily during the 2026 auction or even explore high-profile trades.

However, filling Kohli's shoes requires more than just financial power. The franchise must find a player (or players) who offer a kind of cricketing excellence, leadership potential, and marketability.

Targeting the Next Superstar: Trade Window Moves

Yashasvi Jaiswal – The Prodigy with Fire

  • Retained by Rajasthan Royals for ₹18 crore
  • Known for his explosive starts
  • Consistent run-scorer while striking at over 150 in the Powerplay
  • Deeply marketable, thanks to his rags-to-riches backstory

RCB could attempt a high-stakes trade, offering a cash-plus-player package to Rajasthan for Jaiswal. He would immediately bring flair, aggression, and youthful energy to the top order.

Shubman Gill – The Heir Apparent

  • Gujarat Titans’ captain, retained at ₹16.5 crore
  • Known for his elegant strokeplay and consistent IPL performances
  • Already tipped as a future India captain across formats

While acquiring Gill might prove difficult due to his leadership role, RCB could still make an aggressive offer to Gujarat, leveraging both budget and surplus talent.

Auction Alternatives: Building a New Indian Core

Should marquee trades fall through, RCB might shift focus to the following emerging stars, if the players are available in the auction :

  • Prithvi Shaw – An attacking opener with a high ceiling
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad – Technically sound, mentally composed
  • Ayush Mhatre – U-19 standout with significant long-term potential

These players would help construct a dynamic Indian core, allowing RCB to rebuild organically for the next five-year cycle.

Who Leads the Side?

If Gill joins, captaincy is a natural fit. If not, Rajat Patidar could be retained as captain, supported by senior players like Liam Livingstone, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, or an experienced overseas figure.

RCB might also explore grooming a leadership group model—spreading responsibilities across a trusted inner circle.

Beyond the Field: Reimagining the RCB Brand

Kohli’s departure would demand a rebranding effort as significant as the tactical reset. RCB must reframe its identity, transitioning from "Kohli’s Kingdom" to a new era of Next-Gen Challengers.

Key strategies could include:

  • Showcasing fresh faces in promotional material
  • Leveraging personal narratives (e.g., Jaiswal’s journey or Gill’s maturity)
  • Expanding fan engagement through behind-the-scenes content and social storytelling

Final Thoughts

If Virat Kohli retires before IPL 2026, it will mark the end of an era. However, with careful planning, bold decisions, and a clear vision, RCB would have a unique opportunity to reinvent itself. Whether through a blockbuster trade or a youth-driven rebuild, the franchise can transition from a legacy to a legend-building one, with or without the King.