Aakash Chopra opens up on RCB’s requirements in IPL 2026 auction

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has opened up on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s requirements in the IPL 2026 auction. Chopra said the defending champions did the right thing in retaining most of their players ahead of the auction. 

However, the renowned commentator said RCB must find a backup bowler for Josh Hazlewood. The Australian fast bowler had played a key role in taking the franchise to glory in the previous season, as he had scalped 22 wickets in 12 matches. However, Hazlewood will come into the IPL after playing in the Ashes and the T20 World Cup for Australia.

“They have released a few players, but they haven’t touched anyone who was consistently playing in the XI, and that’s how you want to do it. Prima facie, it’s perfect. What do they need to do? Will Josh Hazlewood remain available for you in the same way?” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.

Hazlewood has already been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England due to a hamstring injury, and Chopra reckons it won’t be easy for the lanky pacer to stay fit throughout.

“Before you start throwing things at me, it’s a simple thing. He is not playing the Ashes Test in Perth. After that, the entire T20 World Cup will be there. The IPL will come after that. Josh Hazlewood’s recent history suggests that it’s not possible for him to remain fit and keep playing continuously for such a long time,” he observed.

The renowned commentator added that RCB would also need a backup bowler for Yash Dayal as the left-arm seamer hasn’t played any professional cricket since the last edition of the IPL.

“I am a little worried about Yash Dayal. You would say why, as Yash Dayal has done well. I totally agree with you, but Yash Dayal hasn’t played any cricket after the IPL. He neither played the UPT20 nor is part of the Ranji Trophy team. If things don’t change drastically, what’s the guarantee you will see him playing in the IPL? So you should 100 percent acquire an Indian fast bowler if you can,” he said. 

The IPL 2026 auction is likely to be scheduled on December 15.