IPL 2026: Aakash Chopra Reveals RCB's Best Lineup, Excludes Bethell and Iyer
Synopsis
Ahead of IPL 2026, Aakash Chopra reveals his top XI for RCB as they prepare for their opening match against SRH. With crucial choices to make, Chopra provides insights into the team's selection strategy and key player exclusions.
Key Takeaways
Aakash Chopra has selected his ideal XI for RCB ahead of IPL 2026.
Padikkal is favored over Iyer for the number 3 spot due to current form.
Bethell has been left out, with other overseas players filling key roles.
Yash Dayal's absence poses a challenge for the bowling lineup.
RCB's opening match is against Sunrisers Hyderabad at home.
New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer, has selected his ideal playing XI for the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), ahead of their inaugural match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru this Saturday.
While RCB has retained most of their squad, the inclusion of Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, and Jacob Bethell, along with an impressive Devdutt Padikkal, has posed a challenge for the management in deciding their lineup.
In a recent video on X, Chopra addressed the pressing concerns the management faces in assembling the most effective team for the season.
He highlighted a significant dilemma regarding the number 3 spot between Padikkal and Iyer. Chopra suggests that, despite Iyer providing an additional bowling option, RCB should opt for Padikkal, who is currently performing exceptionally well.
Chopra has opted to exclude T20 World Cup 2026 centurion Bethell from his selection, favoring Phil Salt, Tim David, and Romario Shepherd in the overseas batting and all-rounder roles. He believes RCB must field an overseas fast bowler and recommends New Zealand’s Duffy, who had a solid World Cup, for the position. Additionally, he has excluded Josh Hazlewood, who just arrived in Bengaluru after recovering from an injury.
In a significant setback for RCB ahead of IPL 2026, their key bowler, Yash Dayal, has been ruled out of the tournament due to personal reasons. Chopra mentions that either debutant Mangesh Yadav or Rasikh Salam could step into his role in the playing XI.
Aakash Chopra's proposed playing XI:
Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (c), Devdutt Padikkal, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Mangesh Yadav/Rasikh Salam.
Point of View
It is evident that the team faces significant decisions as they enter IPL 2026. The balancing act of maintaining a competitive edge while managing player performance will be crucial for their success.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Aakash Chopra exclude from RCB's playing XI?
Aakash Chopra has excluded T20 World Cup 2026 centurion Jacob Bethell from RCB's playing XI.
What is the main dilemma for RCB's management?
The primary dilemma is choosing between Devdutt Padikkal and Venkatesh Iyer for the number 3 batting position.
Who is replacing Yash Dayal in the lineup?
Mangesh Yadav or Rasikh Salam is likely to replace Yash Dayal, who is ruled out for personal reasons.
What is the significance of the opening match?
The opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad is crucial as it sets the tone for RCB's IPL 2026 campaign.
Where will the opening match be held?
The opening match will be held at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
