IPL 2026 auction: Key players who could strengthen Rajasthan Royals

Listen to this article in summarized format

The management of Rajasthan Royals (RR) surprised many when they traded away a seasoned and familiar performer Sanju Samson, who had worn the pink jersey for several seasons, bringing in Chennai Super Kings’ Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran instead. Both are proven all-round match-winners but have not shown their best form over the past couple of seasons.

If one looks at RR’s core, it remains solid, but the squad clearly lacks a tearaway pacer who can unsettle batters with raw pace, deliver breakthroughs at crucial junctures, and dominate key phases of the game. They also need a quality spinner – ideally an Indian who can provide control under pressure, stem the flow of runs and pick up timely wickets.

So, let’s look at the top players RR should target to strengthen their squad. One important factor to remember is that Rajasthan have just ₹16.05 crore in their kitty, the fourth-lowest purse at this mini auction. This makes squad-building a challenge, as they cannot afford to splurge heavily on a single player. It will be interesting to see how RR balance their resources and shape their final playing XI.

Check all the IPL updates here!!

Ravi Bishnoi: If Rajasthan manage to acquire Ravi Bishnoi, it would be something of a homecoming, as he represents Rajasthan in domestic cricket. His attacking leg-spin has tested some of the best batters in the game. However, RR will need to be cautious, as Bishnoi is likely to command a hefty price despite underwhelming seasons with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The Jodhpur-born spinner has played 77 IPL matches so far and taken 72 wickets. In the 2025 IPL auction, LSG paid ₹11 crore for his services.

Mustafizur Rahman: While RR have one of the best fast bowlers in the business in England’s Jofra Archer, his recurring fitness issues remain a concern. Bangladesh’s Rahman could be a valuable addition, offering experience and control to complement Archer and support Sandeep Sharma, who relies more on line and length than outright pace. Rahman can also step in as the lead pacer if Archer is unavailable. He has played 60 IPL matches, picking up 65 wickets at an impressive average of 28.45. In the 2024 auction, he was bought by CSK for ₹2 crore.

Abhinav Manohar: One glaring weakness in RR’s lineup is the inconsistency of their middle order. Last season, Shimron Hetmyer failed to meet expectations, and RR struggled with a poor strike rate in the death overs. In this context, Abhinav Manohar, who is available at a base price of ₹30 lakh—could be a smart, low-cost option. He can bat at Number 6 or 7, shift gears quickly, finish games, or score vital runs under pressure.

Overall, the Rajasthan squad looks fairly balanced, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi at the top as fearless, highly talented power-hitters. The middle order also features reliable batters in Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel. However, RR still need to tick a few key boxes to become serious contenders in the upcoming IPL season.

With Kumar Sangakkara returning as head coach, it will be intriguing to see how he rebuilds a side that finished ninth last season with just eight points.