RCB Advised to Target Kiwi Pacer as Josh Hazlewood’s Back-Up for IPL 2026 Mini Auction | Exclusive

Royal Challengers Bengaluru might be the ones to beat in the IPL 2026 season but the franchise still needs to work on some major issues before the mini auction. RCB with their budget of more than ₹16 crore is likely to go for tactical and smart reinforcements rather than making huge changes to their title-winning squad.

Former RCB captain and JioStar expert Anil Kumble has revealed to CNN-News18 the team's possible fields of reinforcement, with fast bowling being the number one priority—especially a good backup for Josh Hazlewood who gets injured a lot.

RCB Eye Overseas Fast Bowler as Hazlewood Cover

Kumble believes RCB must target an overseas pacer in the mini auction to ensure depth in their fast-bowling unit. He admitted to being surprised by the franchise’s decision to release Lungi Ngidi, who was available at his base price of ₹1 crore.

According to Kumble, several quality options remain in the auction pool. “Anrich Nortje, Matt Henry, and Gerald Coetzee are all available. Out of these, Nortje may go slightly higher, or perhaps Matt Henry,” he said. Emphasising experience, Kumble added that both Nortje and Henry bring proven international pedigree—an asset RCB will value heading into a long season.

Spinner Support for Suyash Sharma Also on Radar

RCB are also expected to look at spin options to share the workload with young leg-spinner Suyash Sharma. Kumble noted that Ravi Bishnoi’s availability in the auction could have been ideal for RCB, but budget constraints may rule out a big bid.

“Rahul Chahar is another option, but I doubt even RCB could get him,” Kumble explained. Instead, he suggested Kumar Karthikeya as a viable alternative. The left-arm spinner offers pace through the air, first-class experience, and the ability to bowl wrist spin—making him a flexible option for different conditions.

Venkatesh Iyer Still on RCB’s Watchlist?

RCB’s interest in Venkatesh Iyer could resurface after their aggressive pursuit of the all-rounder in last year’s mega auction. Kumble believes Iyer’s versatility makes him an attractive target, but price will be the deciding factor.

“You rarely get an experienced Indian international IPL player who is a left-hander and can bat anywhere from No. 1 to No. 5,” Kumble said. However, with a limited purse, RCB’s ability to re-enter the race will depend on how the bidding unfolds.

Fast Bowling Depth the Immediate Priority

Summing up RCB’s auction strategy, Kumble stressed that strengthening the fast-bowling department will come first. Alongside an overseas pacer to support Hazlewood, the franchise may also look for an Indian fast-bowling backup and an additional spinner to complement Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma.

“If Venkatesh Iyer comes at a reasonable price, RCB could consider him,” Kumble concluded. “But their first priority will be shoring up the bowling unit.”

With the IPL 2026 mini auction approaching, RCB’s measured approach suggests a focus on balance, depth, and injury cover as they aim to defend their crown.