IPL 2026: “Yash Dayal faces off-field issues” – Irfan Pathan picks RCB XI for next edition
THE Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally abandoned the label of perennial underachievers, securing their first Indian Premier League (IPL) title in 2025 after an exhausting 17-year wait. As the defending champions prepare for the crucial IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16, their every move is being closely scrutinized. The franchise, now starting a season in a strong position, must focus not on building a team, but on perfecting the existing core of champions led by Virat Kohli And Rajat Patidar.
Irfan Pathan on potential weaknesses ahead of IPL 2026 auction
Amid this wait, the former Indian star Irfan Pathan has carefully analyzed RCB’s potential starting XI, confirming its formidable appearance but issuing clear warnings regarding its potential weaknesses. While Pathan acknowledges that RCB look like a champion team and ready to play, he issued a clear warning about the need for specific reinforcements in the speed bowling unit, identifying vulnerabilities that could be exposed during a long tournament season.
Pathan notes that the decision to release high-value players like Liam Livingstone was created because they have many overseas options in their established core, indicating a number of four established overseas players. However, the potential workload on Australian fast fishing Josh Hazlewoodwho would have also played a lot of cricket, requires the franchise to invest in a quality replacement as having a replacement for Hazlewood will be essential.
Additionally, the domestic rhythm unit faces questions regarding Yash Dayalwho, Pathan notes, has not played any cricket since the IPL and is facing many problems off the field, making an experienced domestic pacer replacement crucial for RCB. This strategic advice focuses on mitigating risk and ensuring team depth rather than chasing new stars.
“They sent Liam Livingstone because they have a lot of options overseas. Jacob Bethell will also not be in the playing XI barring an injury. The only thing they need to keep in mind is that Hazlewood would have played a lot of cricket as well. So having backup for Hazlewood will be essential. Also, Yash Dayal has not played any cricket since the IPL and is facing a lot of problems off the field. So having that backup is crucial for RCB. But they look like a champion team and ready to play. Irfan said on his Youtube channel.
ALSO READ: ‘I really like him as a player, but…’: RCB director of cricket on Liam Livingstone’s exit ahead of IPL 2026 auction
RCB Pathan plans to play XI for IPL 2026
Pathan revealed his chosen starting XI for the defending champions, leaning heavily on the core group that won the IPL 2025 title. The XI is built around a balance of explosive Indian batting talent and established overseas match-winners, designed to capitalize on the consistency shown in their title-winning campaign. For 12th place, Pathan opted for leg-spinner Suyash Sharma.
Position pleaseYes role
1. Virat Kohli – Opener – (Indian)
2. Phil Salt – Wicketkeeper/Opener – (abroad)
3. Devdutt Padikkal – Top notch paste – (Indian)
4. Rajat Patidar – Top notch paste – (Indian)
5. Tim David – Finisher – (abroad)
6. Jitesh Sharma – Wicketkeeper/Finisher – (Indian)
7. Romario Shepard – Pace All-rounder – (abroad)
8. Krunal Pandya – Spin Allrounder – (Indian)
9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Pacer – (Indian)
10. Josh Hazlewood – Pacer – (abroad)
11. Yash Dayal – Pacer- (Indian)
Also READ: IPL 2026: No home matches for RCB at Chinnaswamy Stadium? Here’s what we know
