Wasim Jaffer Unveils His Ideal RCB Lineup for Upcoming IPL Season
Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has revealed his preferred playing eleven for the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, which is scheduled to commence on March 28. Jaffer's selection provides a detailed insight into the potential team composition, balancing experience with emerging talent.
Strategic Omissions and Key Inclusions in the Batting Order
While RCB have largely maintained their core squad from the previous campaign, several notable additions have enriched their roster. The acquisitions of Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, and Jacob Bethell, combined with Devdutt Padikkal's impressive pre-season form, present the team management with multiple options for finalizing their starting lineup.
In a video shared on social media platform X, Jaffer made some bold choices, particularly at the top of the order. He selected former captain Virat Kohli and the in-form Jacob Bethell as his opening pair. Bethell showcased his capabilities during the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026, earning recognition for his performances.
Notably, Jaffer excluded Phil Salt from his lineup, despite the English wicketkeeper-batter playing a pivotal role in RCB's title-winning campaign last season. Salt's recent struggles for form influenced this decision, as he managed only 130 runs in eight matches at the World Cup, with just one half-century to his name.
Balanced Middle Order and All-Round Depth
Jaffer positioned skipper Rajat Patidar at number three, emphasizing stability in the batting order. He followed this with all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer at number four, highlighting the strategic importance of maintaining a left-right combination among the top-order batsmen to disrupt bowling plans.
At number five, Tim David was chosen for his reliable middle-order presence, particularly noted in his performances for Australia. Jitesh Sharma was named as the wicketkeeper and designated finisher, adding firepower to the lower middle order.
The all-round department features two dynamic players: Romario Shepherd, renowned for his explosive power-hitting, and Krunal Pandya, who played a crucial role in RCB's maiden IPL triumph. Their inclusion underscores the value of versatile players who can contribute with both bat and ball.
Pace Attack and Impact Player Selection
With Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood expected to miss the initial matches of the season, Jaffer included Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Thushara in his playing eleven. The pace attack is further strengthened by the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the promising Yash Dayal, offering a blend of swing, pace, and variation.
Jaffer also designated Suyash Sharma as the Impact Player, a strategic move that allows flexibility based on match conditions, whether requiring an additional bowler or batsman during the game.
Complete Playing XI as Selected by Wasim Jaffer
Wasim Jaffer's RCB Playing XI for IPL 2026:
- Virat Kohli
- Jacob Bethell
- Rajat Patidar (captain)
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Tim David
- Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper)
- Romario Shepherd
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Nuwan Thushara
- Yash Dayal
Impact Player: Suyash Sharma
This selection reflects a thoughtful approach to team composition, prioritizing current form, strategic combinations, and the specific demands of the T20 format as RCB aim to defend their IPL title in the upcoming season.
