As IPL 2026 draws closer, the Rajasthan Royals are preparing for a fresh squad overhaul after an inconsistent 2025 campaign.
With several players underperforming and new names showing promise, the franchise is making big decisions ahead of the auction.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 squad, including retained and released players.
Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 Squad
With a clear retention strategy in place, RR are looking to rebuild a stronger and more consistent unit. They are focusing on a reliable top order, dependable finishers, and improving their bowling depth, which was a concern in IPL 2025.
Which players will be released by RR ahead of IPL 2026?
Rajasthan Royals are expected to release a few big names and underperformers to free up budget and overseas slots. Here’s the list of players likely to be released:
- Kumar Kartikeya – The left-arm spinner failed to secure a place in the playing XI and could be let go.
- Kwena Maphaka – A young pacer who didn’t get much game time and could be released ahead of the 2026 season.
- Maheesh Theekshana – The Sri Lankan mystery spinner made little impact and more was expected from the premier overseas bowler.
Which players will be retained by RR for IPL 2026?
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kunal Singh Rathore, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Vaibhav Suryavanshi
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Key players from IPL 2025 campaign to build team for the future
These four standout performers played a big role for RR in IPL 2025 and are expected to be the pillars of the team in 2026:
- Sanju Samson (Captain & Wicketkeeper): RR’s skipper remains the face of the franchise. Despite a mixed 2025, his leadership and finishing skills are valuable assets for the team.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: A dynamic opener who consistently gave RR explosive starts. His ability to dominate attacks makes him one of the most dangerous young batters in the league.
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The teenage sensation impressed everyone with his fearless batting and consistency. His breakout debut season promises a big future.
- Riyan Parag: After years of promise, Parag stepped up in 2025 with consistent performances in the top and middle order, also filling in as a leader when needed.
RR 2026 Playing XI
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Sanju Samson (C & WK)
- Nitish Rana
- Riyan Parag
- Dhruv Jurel
- Shubham Dubey
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Tushar Deshpande
- Jofra Archer
- Sandeep Sharma
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RR’s expected moves ahead of IPL 2026
RR’s expected moves ahead of IPL 2026 focus on releasing inconsistent performers and underutilized overseas players to build a more balanced and dependable squad. Their retained core features a mix of experienced internationals and promising Indian talent across departments. With a solid top order, finishing power, and an improving bowling unit, Rajasthan Royals will aim for a strong resurgence in the upcoming season.
