As 2026 IPL approaches, Rajasthan Royals are gearing up to make changes to their squad after a mediocre 2025.
Some players didn’t perform and some new ones look good, so the team is making some big decisions before the auction.
Here’s what you need to know about Rajasthan Royals 2026 IPL squad, who’s staying and who’s leaving.
RR has a plan to retain some players and build a stronger, more consistent team. They want a good top order, finishers and better bowlers since that was the problem in 2025 IPL.
Who will RR release before IPL 2026?
Rajasthan Royals will release some big names who didn’t perform. This will free up money and spots for foreign players. Here’s a list of who might be released:
Kumar Kartikeya: The left-arm spinner didn’t make it to the playing XI and might be released.
Kwena Maphaka: This young fast bowler didn’t play much and might be released before 2026 season.
Maheesh Theekshana: The Sri Lankan spinner didn’t make much of an impact and more was expected from this foreign bowler.
Who will RR retain 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
Key players from 2025 IPL season to build the team for future
These four players did well for RR in 2025 IPL season and will be important members of the team in 2026:
Sanju Samson (Captain & Wicketkeeper): RR’s captain is still the main man for the team. Even though he had a mixed 2025, his leadership and finishing skills are valuable to the team.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: This opener is explosive and gets RR off to a flying start. He can take bowlers apart which makes him one of the most dangerous young batsman in the league.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi: This young player impressed everyone with his confident batting and consistency. His first season was great and he has a bright future.
Riyan Parag: After showing promise for years, Parag finally played well in 2025, performed well in top and middle order and even led the team when required.
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
