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Cricket PlayersDecoding the RR IPL 2026 auction strategy: What the Royals are planning for post-Sanju Samson era
Rajasthan Royals approach the IPL 2026 mini-auction strategically, with INR 16.05 crore to fill nine slots.
Rajasthan Royals don’t enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction for fireworks. They enter it looking for solutions, the kind that win you two tight games in April and quietly decide a playoff race.
The mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi comes with a tight RR reality: only INR 16.05 cr left, nine slots to fill, and just one overseas spot available. It is less ‘shopping spree’ and more ‘surgical strike - role-perfect and not for flashy headlines.
Where Rajasthan Royals stand before the auction
What they have: a string domestic spine in Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhurv Jurel, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and a pace-heavy overseas group led by Jofra Archer with Hetmyer, Burger, Maphaka, and Pretorius also in the mix.
What they changed:
Out: Samson (trade with CSK), plus overseas spinners like Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana (released)
In: Jadeja and Sam Curran (trade with CSK), and Donovan Ferreira (trade with Delhi Capitals)
What they can spend: RR go in with INR 16.05 crore, nine slots to fill, and one overseas spot left- meaning this auction is basically an India-first rebuild around specific roles, not a vibes-based shopping spree.
What RR still need:
1. A wicket-taking leg spinner
2. A reliable Indian finisher
3. One more Indian death option
Also Read: CSK have Cameron Green for INR 21 cr as KKR go hard for Liam Livingstone in ‘Winning Bid’ of Ashwin's mock auction
Five Realistic Auction targets for RR
1. Ravi Bishnoi: The cleanest direct replacement for the wicket-taking overs RR just removed from their XI.
2. Rahul Chahar: If RR want a slightly cheaper Indian legspin route, Chahar fits the role without burning too much of their purse.
3. Abhinav Manohar: An Indian power option who can be slotted into the number 5/6 position.
4. Akash Deep: A strong Indian pace option who can cover tough overs and reduce the dependency on Jofra Archer
5. Akash Madhwal: At INR 30 Lakhs, Akash Madhwal could be a good buy-back option for the Royals. He could add depth and value to the bowling attack of the inaugural champions.
