IPL 2026: Preparation of IPL 2026 (IPL 2026) is in full swing and all franchisees are working on a strategy to strengthen their teams. The IPL 2026 will be even more important for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), as the team will now go down to defend the title. The franchise can retain 5 players and the five players to be retained are very special to Virat Kohli- so let’s look at those 5 special players-

1. Rajat Patidar- Granted first title in captaincy

Rajat Patidar, who won the first title under his captaincy to RCB in the last session of IPL, won several matches to the team in the last season. His understanding with Kohli is excellent and Kohli has praised Patidar’s match sense and restraint on several occasions.

2. Fil Salt-IPL 2026 will also be the hero of Powerplay

England’s aggressive batsman Phil Salat has made his mark in the powerplay. His top order partnership with Virat Kohli has challenged the opposing teams. The combination of Kohli’s advice and salt’s aggression has become the key to RCB’s victory.

Salt will also be expected to repeat the old performance in IPL 2026 (IPL 2026).

He gave a strong start to the team several times by giving a fast start in the last season. His aggressive batting played a big role in spoiling the rhythm of the opposing bowlers.

3. Jitesh Sharma- Finishing and ability to score fast runs

Wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma was included as a smart pick by RCB. His finishing capacity and the ability to score fast in backnd make him extremely special. Kohli has also appreciated Jitesh’s mental firmness, he is involved in the race for retention.

4. Krunal Pandya-gent and important player with bat

All -rounder Krunal Pandya’s experience and left -arm spin bowling maintains the balance of RCB. Under the leadership of Virat Kohli, Krunal has played with responsibility, especially in difficult circumstances. Their pair in dugout is considered quite strong with Kohli.

5. Tim David- Death Over specialist

Power-Hitter Tim David is known for rainy rain in the death overs. Virat Kohli has given him the responsibility by sending him up in the batting order several times, and David has converted that trust into a run. His aggressive game has a good synergy with Kohli.

These five players are not only an important pillar of RCB’s strategy, but are also a confidant of Virat Kohli. In such a situation, it is believed that the franchise will retain the team’s strong core by retaining them in IPL 2026 and will leave no stone unturned in the mission to save the title.