Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made strategic additions to their roster during the IPL 2026 mini-auction. They recruited India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer and New Zealand bowler Jacob Duffy for competitive prices. RCB’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, expressed satisfaction with these signings, viewing Duffy as a particularly valuable acquisition.
Strategic Signings at IPL 2026 Mini-Auction
The IPL 2026 mini-auction saw RCB focus on incorporating utility players into their well-established lineup. Iyer was signed for ₹7 crore, significantly lower than his previous auction price of ₹23.75 crore when he joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Bobat remarked on the auction being “slightly unusual” due to RCB’s already settled team.
Jacob Duffy: A Valuable Addition
Jacob Duffy joined RCB for ₹2 crore, which Bobat labeled as a bargain acquisition. With a strong record, Duffy has taken 53 wickets in 38 T20 matches, boasting an average of 17.05 and an impressive economy rate of 7.36. His potential to serve as a backup for injured pacer Josh Hazlewood adds depth to RCB’s bowling unit.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Recent Performance
Before joining RCB, Venkatesh Iyer showcased his talent during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025. He scored a notable 70 runs off 43 balls against Punjab, despite the team’s loss. His consistent performance makes him a valuable asset for RCB in the upcoming season.
Current Team Dynamics
- Injury Covers: RCB aims to strengthen its squad amid injury concerns, particularly with Hazlewood ruled out of the Ashes 2025-26.
- Overseas Pacers: Nuwan Thushara of Sri Lanka is the retained overseas fast bowler, further enhancing the team’s pace attack.
With Duffy and Iyer now part of the squad, RCB is preparing for a more competitive campaign in the IPL. Their latest acquisitions reflect a calculated approach to build a resilient team capable of withstanding challenges throughout the season.
