Aakash Chopra Identifies Five RCB Players to Retain and One for Release Ahead of IPL 2027 Auction

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has recommended that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) retain five key players ahead of the IPL 2027 auction scheduled for December 16, 2026. He suggests keeping Devdutt Padikkal, Jacob Bethell, Venkatesh Iyer, Rasikh Salam Dar, and Suyash Sharma due to their significant contributions during the IPL 2026 season. Chopra highlighted Padikkal's strong batting performance with 464 runs and Bethell's promising potential. Venkatesh Iyer's impactful limited appearances and all-round skills also earned a retention recommendation. However, Chopra advised RCB to release all-rounder Romario Shepherd due to inconsistent performances. These retention decisions must be submitted by November 15, 2026.