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
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.
www.hindustantimes.com
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