RR probable playing 11 for IPL 2026 after auction

Rajasthan Royals (RR) assembled a competitive squad through the IPL 2026 mini-auction after finishing ninth in the 2025 season. Determined to bounce back strongly, the franchise made calculated trades ahead of the auction and secured several impactful signings during the bidding process to build a more settled and balanced squad.

They did not make any heavy signings at the auction table in Abu Dhabi, buying nine players. Their most notable purchases were leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi and New Zealand quick Adam Milne. A few uncapped and lesser-known players also made it to their squad for the upcoming season, and the side will look to turn its fortunes, with a revamped leadership unit.

Here’s the predicted playing 11 of RR for IPL 2026 after auction

Top Order: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag

RR are expected to open their innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Jaiswal was among the most consistent batters in IPL 2025, scoring 559 runs with six half-centuries. He carried that form into international cricket, delivering impressive performances for India in both Tests and ODIs. Suryavanshi, signed during the IPL 2025 mega auction, made a strong impression as a replacement for Sanju Samson.

He scored 252 runs in seven matches at an extraordinary strike rate of 206.55, quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the tournament. Riyan Parag is likely to slot in at No. 3. Having captained RR in IPL 2025, Parag scored 393 runs and chipped in with three wickets. With added leadership experience, he will aim to anchor the innings while maintaining an aggressive approach.

Middle Order: Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper)

Shimron Hetmyer will continue to play a key role in RR’s middle order. Although he managed only 239 runs last season, his strike rate of 145.73 underlined his ability to score quickly. His fielding was also a standout feature, though his batting consistency will be under scrutiny in the 2026 edition of the marquee T20 tournament.

Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is expected to follow at No. 5. He scored 333 runs at a strike rate exceeding 150.00 in the previous season and demonstrated his ability to finish games, however, the results did not fall in the Jaipur-based franchise’s favour on a majority of occasions. The Royals will look to utilise him more effectively in pressure situations this season.

All Rounder: Ravindra Jadeja (captain), Sam Curran

RR’s all-round department will be led by Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Jadeja, who previously represented RR in the inaugural 2008 season, brings vast experience, having scored over 3,260 runs and taken 170 wickets in the IPL. His presence adds balance and depth to the squad. Furthermore, the Saurashtra all-rounder is also expected to be the captain, an official word is awaited, though.

English cricketer Sam Curran will be another vital component. The star left-handed all-rounder has accumulated 997 runs and 59 wickets in the IPL and will be eager to make a significant impact in RR colours. He also showed great form and consistency in the Hundred Men’s and the ongoing ILT20 2025-26, which is quite a positive thing to ponder for RR.

Bowler: Jofra Archer, Adam Milne, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande

RR are likely to rely heavily on pace, potentially fielding four specialist fast bowlers, with Ravi Bishnoi available as an Impact Player when required. Jofra Archer and Adam Milne will form the overseas pace duo. Archer, with 59 IPL wickets, will look to rediscover his best rhythm, while Milne, returning to the league after three years, will aim to make his presence felt.

Among the Indian pacers, Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande are expected to shoulder responsibility. Sandeep has 147 IPL wickets to his name and will be keen to regain form, while Deshpande, who has taken 51 wickets, will look to improve after an inconsistent previous season.

RR predicted playing XI for IPL 2026:

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Jofra Archer, Adam Milne, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande

Impact Player: Ravi Bishnoi