THE Rajasthan Royals (RR) experienced a campaign of ups and downs in the IPL2025 season, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling to maintain momentum when it mattered most. Although their Indian core performed admirably under the leadership of Sanju Samsonforeign players contributed in phases but lacked consistency as a unit. Despite their absence in the final, RR showed enough promise to suggest that a few key foreign names could form the backbone of their team going forward.
With the 2026 auction expected to shake up team rosters, the Royals will be keen to retain a balanced group of international stars who bring experience, skill and versatility. Based on performance and impact, here are three overseas players that RR can retain ahead of IPL 2026.
Rajasthan Royals 2025 campaign – Flashes of genius, but costs of inconsistency
The Royals started their IPL 2025 campaign with formidable intent, winning four of their first six matches. Their first order, led by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Samson, gave them explosive starts, while their bowling attack, featuring Jofra Archer And Mahesh Theekshanaprovided early breakthroughs. However, as the season progressed, RR struggled with intermediate stability and failed to close out close games – a recurring theme in their history.
Injuries and turnover among foreign players disrupted the team’s balance, causing RR to lose crucial matches in the second half of the league. Despite these obstacles, they managed to qualify for the playoffs but once again fell short of the title. The 2025 season has reinforced the need for stability and experience among foreign players – something RR will prioritize in its retention strategy ahead of IPL 2026.
3 Overseas Players RR Can Retain Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
1. Jofra Archer – Royals spearhead
- Role: Fast bowler
- Price in 2025: 12.50 million INR
- Performance in 2025: 11 wickets in 12 matches, best figures – 3/25
Archer remains one of Rajasthan Royals’ most valuable overseas assets. The English speedster may not have had a stellar season statistically, but his presence and impact was undeniable. Archer’s pace, accuracy and ability to bat in both the powerplay and death overs made him Sanju Samson’s go-to bowler throughout the campaign.
Despite returning from a lengthy injury absence, Archer showed glimpses of his old pace, registering express speeds and troubling top-order hitters with crisp bounces and moves. His match-winning spell of 3/25 against KKR showed his game-changing ability. Given his experience and winning potential, Archer is an automatic retention pick ahead of the 2026 IPL auction.
Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 3 foreign players RCB can retain ahead of IPL 2026 auction
2. Shimron Hetmyer – The Caribbean Finisher
- Role: Finisher
- Price in 2025: 11 million INR
- Performance in 2025: 239 runs in 14 matches, 1 fifty
Hetmyer continued to play the role of finisher for Rajasthan Royals, often providing late fireworks in close chases. Although his overall numbers in IPL 2025 have been modest – 239 runs in 14 matches – his ability to change momentum in death overs remains a rare asset. His match-winning appearance against Mumbai Indians, where he smashed 32* off 13 balls, reminded fans of his explosive potential.
Hetmyer’s hitting power against pace and spin makes him one of the few reliable finishers in T20 cricket. Moreover, his experience and temperament in critical moments add balance to RR’s lower middle order. With Indian options limited for the finisher role, retaining Hetmyer could help RR maintain continuity and stability in its batting lineup for the 2026 season.
3. Maheesh Theekshana – The spin trump card
- Role: Spinner
- Price in 2025: 4.40 million INR
- Performance in 2025: 11 wickets in 11 matches, best figures – 2/26
Sri Lankan off-spinner Theekshana has quietly become a crucial part of RR’s bowling plans. Tasked with operating in the middle order, he regularly stifled opposing hitters with his subtle variations and control. While his numbers – 11 wickets in 11 matches – may not seem extraordinary, his economy rate and ability to create pressure have often led to wickets at the other end.
Theekshana’s effectiveness on spin-friendly surfaces like Jaipur has made him a valuable tactical weapon. His consistency, composure and ability to play on the power play give RR a versatile rotation option. Given his age and growing reputation in T20, retaining Theekshana would be a wise long-term investment for the franchise.
Also READ: Mumbai Indians: 3 Foreign Players MI Can Retain Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
