As the defending champions head into the new season, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has shared his take on the playing XI of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2026.
In his latest YouTube video, Chopra analysed the retained core of RCB and built a balanced side that focuses on experience, firepower and spin options, while leaving out one of the team’s young overseas talents.
Aakash Chopra’s probable playing 11 for RCB:
- Phil Salt
- Virat Kohli
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Rajat Patidar (c)
- Tim David
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Romario Shepherd
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Jacob Duffy
- Mangesh Yadav
Impact player options: Rasikh Salam Dar or Suyash Sharma
Also READ: SWOT analysis of Royal Challengers Bengaluru: RCB’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026
Why Jacob Bethell misses out?
Despite Jacob Bethell’s explosive form, including a blazing 48-ball 105 in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final against India, Chopra decided not to include the young England all-rounder in his final XI. Bethell was one of the 17 players retained by RCB, but Chopra prioritised team balance and combination over individual brilliance.
With four overseas slots already taken by explosive opener Phil Salt, middle-order hitter Tim David, all-rounder Romario Shepherd and pacer Jacob Duffy, there was simply no room left for Bethell in this setup.
Chopra’s key observations
Opening punch: Salt and Kohli form a strong, aggressive opening pair that can give RCB quick starts.
Middle-order stability: Devdutt Padikkal gets the nod at No. 3 ahead of other options like Venkatesh Iyer for better left-right balance. Rajat Patidar anchors at No. 4 as captain.
Finishing power: Tim David and Jitesh Sharma provide the explosive lower-order batting RCB needs.
All-round depth: Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya add crucial balance with both bat and ball.
Bowling concerns: Chopra noted that RCB’s attack might have to work harder this season, especially with Yash Dayal unavailable and Josh Hazlewood likely missing early games. He expects Bhuvneshwar and Krunal to step up with their wicket-taking ability. Young pacer Mangesh completes the pace attack alongside Duffy.
Chopra also made a couple of bold predictions: Kohli as the highest run-scorer for RCB and Bhuvneshwar as the team’s leading wicket-taker.
He gave RCB a realistic 30 percent chance of retaining the title while feeling they should comfortably make the playoffs if the batting clicks and the bowling holds up under pressure.
With the IPL 2026 season just days away, RCB fans will be keenly watching whether the actual playing XI matches Chopra’s vision or if captain Rajat Patidar brings in a few surprises, possibly including the talented Bethell.
Also READ: Consortium led by Aditya Birla Group acquires RCB in record-breaking deal ahead of IPL 2026
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