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Ravichandran Ashwin has given a strong early endorsement of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title defence, insisting the franchise has assembled a squad capable of adding another IPL crown in the next couple of seasons. After ending a 17-year title drought in 2025, RCB enter IPL 2026 carrying the weight of expectation and the pressures that come with being defending champions.The 2025 mega auction saw RCB retain only Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal before rebuilding their roster. The overhaul brought in key additions such as Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, giving the side a more balanced structure that delivered the franchise’s long-awaited first IPL trophy.
Title-winning depth in RCB’s squad
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised the squad’s balance and depth, noting it no longer relies solely on one or two stars. “RCB can add another title in the next two years with this squad. Winning the IPL isn’t easy, but the building blocks they have, the kind of like-for-like replacements they have,” he said.Ashwin highlighted how RCB have addressed previous gaps in their combination. “The way they have addressed the holes in the combination. This is a good package to finish in the top two,” he said.For years, RCB were criticised for depending too heavily on star power. The post-auction rebuild has changed that perception. The batting is now more flexible, the pace resources stronger, and each player has a clearer role in the squad.
Foreign strength and Hazlewood’s absence
Ashwin singled out RCB’s foreign contingent as one of the best in the tournament. “In Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, Tim David and Romario Shepherd, this is probably the best four foreigners you can get, and it is one of the best in the tournament,” he said.Despite Josh Hazlewood’s injury leaving his availability uncertain for the start of IPL 2026, Ashwin believes this could work in RCB’s favour. “In all honesty, this is a blessing in disguise for RCB. If they don’t have Hazlewood and they are concerned about Salt’s form, they can play both Salt and Bethell. And when Hazlewood returns, you will have a clearer picture on the form of these and depending on that you can change,” he said.Ashwin also noted the flexibility of the bowling attack. “If the bowling is leaking a lot, they can leave Mangesh Yadav out and bring in Jacob Duffy or Hazlewood when he is fit. They have a squad that can conquer home conditions and handle ups and downs with bat and ball,” he said.
Ahwin’s RCB probable XI (considering Hazlewood is unavailable):
Virat Kohli – Phil Salt – Jacob Bethell – Rajat Patidar – Jitesh Sharma – Tim David – Romario Shepherd – Krunal Pandya – Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Mangesh Yadav – Yash Dayal – Suyash Sharma (Impact Sub)With this blend of experience, and overseas firepower, Ashwin believes RCB are well-equipped to defend their title and remain among the frontrunners in IPL 2026.
