IPL 2026: Wasim Jaffer Reveals RCB's Starting XI, Leaves Out Phil Salt
Synopsis
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, Wasim Jaffer shares his ultimate lineup for RCB, sparking discussions with the exclusion of key player Phil Salt. Discover who made the cut and the strategic choices behind the selections.
Key Takeaways
Virat Kohli and Jacob Bethell to open the innings.
Phil Salt omitted due to form issues.
Inclusion of Venkatesh Iyer and Tim David strengthens the middle order.
Nuwan Thushara replaces Hazlewood , enhancing pace attack.
Suyash Sharma as the designated Impact Player.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer has revealed his ideal playing XI for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the reigning champions, ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which kicks off on March 28.
RCB has maintained a stable squad with minor adjustments, but the addition of Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, and Jacob Bethell, along with Devdutt Padikkal showing impressive form, has posed a challenge for the management in finalizing their lineup.
In a recent video posted on X, Jaffer, who has prior experience with Punjab Kings in the IPL, has chosen former captain Virat Kohli alongside young talent Jacob Bethell to open the innings for RCB. Notably, he has excluded Phil Salt, a key player in RCB's success last year. Salt struggled in the World Cup, accumulating just 130 runs in 8 matches, including one half-century.
The experienced former opener has positioned captain Rajat Patidar third and Venkatesh Iyer fourth, creating a left-right batting combination at the top.
At the fifth spot, Jaffer has opted for Tim David, who has been performing well for Australia in the middle order, and selected Jitesh Sharma as both wicketkeeper and finisher.
Moreover, he has included West Indies powerhouse Romario Shepherd, known for his big hitting, alongside Krunal Pandya, who played a vital role in RCB's inaugural IPL victory.
Jaffer has chosen Nuwan Thushara to step in for Australian Josh Hazlewood, who will miss the initial matches of the season. He will be supported by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal in the pace attack, while Suyash Sharma has been named as the Impact Player.
Wasim Jaffer's suggested playing XI: Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (capt), Venkatesh Iyer, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Yash Dayal.
Impact player: Suyash Sharma.
Point of View
Emphasizing the impact of Jaffer's expertise in shaping a competitive lineup.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the key players in Wasim Jaffer's RCB XI?
Key players include Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, and Rajat Patidar, with Jaffer emphasizing the importance of a left-right batting combination.
Why was Phil Salt excluded from the playing XI?
Phil Salt was left out due to his recent poor form, scoring only 130 runs in 8 World Cup matches.
When does IPL 2026 start?
The IPL 2026 season is set to begin on March 28.
Who will replace Josh Hazlewood in RCB's squad?
Nuwan Thushara has been selected to replace Josh Hazlewood, who will miss the opening matches.
What is the role of Suyash Sharma in the team?
Suyash Sharma has been designated as the Impact Player for RCB.
