Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has backed the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win another IPL title in the next two years. RCB were finally able to end their IPL title drought as they lifted their maiden crown after beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the previous season.

RCB has got a solid team for the upcoming season, but it is known that defending an IPL title is never easy. Only the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have defended their title in the past.

Ashwin reckons RCB have the squad to replicate the previous season’s success.

“RCB can add another title in the next two years with this squad. Winning the IPL is not easy, but the buidling blocks they have, the kind of like-for-like replacements they have. The way they have addressed the holes in the combination. This is a good package to finish in the top two,” R Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood is ruled out of the first few IPL 2026 matches, which is a big blow for the defending champions. However, Ashwin reckons this could be a blessing in disguise for RCB as they can play both Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell till Hazlewood returns.

“In all honesty, this is a blessing in disguise for RCB. If RCB do not have Hazlewood, and they are concerned about Salt’s form, they can play both Salt and Bethell. And when Hazlewood returns, you will have a clearer picture,” R Ashwin said.

The former India off-spinner said Venkatesh Iyer will not get his opportunity at the start in IPL 2026.

“I don’t think Venkatesh Iyer will play at the start. Brother, look at their foreign players. Salt, David, Shepherd, and Bethell. My god, that is a serious top four overseas combination that you can get. Probably one of the best in the tournament,” he concluded.

RCB will begin their IPL defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru on 28th March.