Royal Challengers Bengaluru, or RCB, is one of the most loved teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The team started in 2008. For many years, fans waited for the big win. The famous words “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This year the cup is ours) became very popular. In 2025, after 18 long years, RCB finally won their first IPL trophy! They beat Punjab Kings in the final by just 6 runs. Virat Kohli and the whole team made history that day.
RCB fans are searching a lot for RCB vs PBKS, RCB vs CSK, RCB vs MI, and RCB vs KKR this season. As defending champions, RCB will play 14 exciting league matches. Below you will find the full schedule, head-to-head records, and short previews for all big games.
Now in 2026, RCB is the defending champion. Everyone is excited to see if they can win the cup again. Virat Kohli is still the big star and leader. Rajat Patidar is the captain. The team has strong batters, good all-rounders, and fast bowlers. Fans are full of hope. This article tells you everything about RCB for IPL 2026 in easy words.
Team Ownership and Franchise Background
| ROYAL CHALLENGERS BENGALURUThe Complete Story: Ownership, Equity, Rivalries & IPL Journey 2008–2026 #PlayBold | 2025 IPL Champions | $1.78 Billion Franchise |
The Red Revolution
Royal Challengers Bengaluru — just three letters, RCB, and the entire cricketing world knows who you are talking about. Since the Indian Premier League was born in 2008, RCB has been its most dramatic, most passionate, and most heart-wrenching story. A team of superstars that chased glory for 17 long years before finally breaking through in 2025, RCB is not just a cricket team — it is a religion, a culture, and now, a $1.78 billion business empire.
From Vijay Mallya’s flamboyant original ownership to Diageo’s corporate stewardship to the Aditya Birla Group’s landmark takeover, RCB’s journey mirrors India’s own transformation over the last two decades. From a ₹446 crore franchise in 2008 to a ₹16,660 crore juggernaut in 2026 — this is the complete story of the most followed cricket team on the planet.
RCB Ownership History — From Mallya to Birla
Phase 1: The Vijay Mallya Era (2008–2016)
Vijay Mallya — the flamboyant ‘King of Good Times’ — purchased the Bangalore franchise for $111.6 million (approximately ₹446 crore) at the inaugural IPL auction on January 24, 2008, in Mumbai. It was the second-highest bid that day, beaten only by Reliance Industries’ purchase of Mumbai Indians for $111.9 million.
Mallya wanted to link one of his top liquor brands — either McDowell’s No.1 or Royal Challenge — with the team. He chose Royal Challengers, and the name stuck. The team colors of red, gold, and black were inspired by his United Breweries empire.
In July 2013, British multinational Diageo plc acquired a controlling stake in United Spirits Limited (USL), Mallya’s liquor company. This began a slow power transfer. By February 2016, following legal troubles and financial scandals, Mallya resigned as Chairman of USL and subsequently fled India. Diageo officially assumed full operational control.
Phase 2: The Diageo/USL Era (2016–2026)
United Spirits Limited (USL), a Diageo subsidiary, ran RCB through its wholly-owned company Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL). This brought corporate discipline, global marketing muscle, and fresh investment into the franchise.
Under USL, RCB made several bold moves: signing world-class players like AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli’s retention year after year, acquiring the RCB Women’s team in the WPL for ₹901 crore in 2023, and finally winning the IPL title in 2025.
In late 2025, after the title win, Diageo appointed Citigroup to oversee a strategic review of their RCB stake. Multiple global investors expressed interest — and on March 24, 2026, USL announced the sale to a four-member consortium.
Phase 3: The New Era — Aditya Birla Consortium (2026 onwards)
On March 24, 2026, United Spirits Limited confirmed the sale of 100% equity in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited to a consortium for ₹16,660 crore (approximately $1.78 billion) — the highest valuation ever paid for a cricket franchise anywhere in the world.
The deal was an all-cash transaction covering both the RCB men’s IPL team and the RCB Women’s WPL team. It also included all associated brand intellectual property, the RCB Bar & Cafe hospitality ventures, and RCB Unbox intellectual properties.
Section 2: Current Ownership — Consortium Breakdown & Equity
2.1 The Four-Member Consortium
Aditya Birla Group (ABG) — Chairman: Aryaman Vikram Birla
One of India’s largest and most respected conglomerates, with operations spanning over 40 countries and a legacy of over 165 years. ABG’s massive consumer-facing brand portfolio, large retail footprint, and deep corporate relationships position it perfectly to lead RCB’s commercial expansion. Aryaman Birla, who himself played domestic cricket for Madhya Pradesh, serves as Chairman.
The Times of India Group — Vice Chairman: Satyan Gajwani
One of India’s largest media conglomerates and the operator of the world’s most comprehensive cricket ecosystem. Times Group owns Cricbuzz (the world’s #1 cricket platform), Willow TV (North America’s cricket home), and stakes in Major League Cricket (USA) and London Spirit (The Hundred). Their media muscle gives RCB unmatched digital reach globally.
Bolt Ventures — Owner: David Blitzer
David Blitzer is one of the world’s most prominent sports investors. His portfolio spans Crystal Palace FC (Premier League), Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), New Jersey Devils (NHL), Washington Commanders (NFL), Cleveland Guardians (MLB), and Real Salt Lake (MLS). His involvement signals RCB’s arrival as a global multi-sport brand, not just an Indian cricket franchise.
Blackstone (BXPE — Blackstone’s Perpetual Private Equity Strategy)
The world’s largest alternative asset manager with over $1.3 trillion in assets under management. Blackstone brings institutional-grade financial oversight, global investor networks, and long-term capital appreciation expertise. CEO of BXPE, Viral Patel, represents Blackstone on the RCB board.
2.2 Equity Structure
While the exact equity split between the four consortium members has not been publicly disclosed, what is confirmed is that the acquisition covers 100% of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL). The BCCI gave formal ratification on March 25, 2026.
The deal structure — four complementary partners with strengths in sports, media, technology, private equity, and brand-building — is designed to capture every dimension of RCB’s commercial potential.
Also Read More About: RCB vs KKR: The Ultimate Guide to IPL’s Greatest Rivalry (2008–2026)— All Match Summaries, Stats, Owners, Players, Coaches, and IPL 2026 Preview —
Section 3: RCB Franchise Valuation — Year by Year (2008–2026)
Here is the complete journey of RCB’s valuation from a $111 million gamble in 2008 to a $1.78 billion landmark transaction in 2026 — a 16x growth in dollar terms and over 37x growth in rupee terms.
| Year | Owner | Valuation (USD) | Key Event |
| 2008 | Vijay Mallya / United Breweries | $111.6 Million | Franchise purchased at inaugural IPL auction |
| 2009 | United Spirits Ltd (USL) | ~$150 Million | Reached first IPL Final (lost to Deccan Chargers) |
| 2010 | United Spirits Ltd (USL) | ~$180 Million | Acquired AB de Villiers — a game-changing signing |
| 2011 | United Spirits Ltd (USL) | ~$220 Million | Reached IPL Final again (lost to CSK) |
| 2012 | United Spirits Ltd (USL) | ~$250 Million | Failed to reach playoffs despite Gayle’s 733 runs |
| 2013 | USL (Diageo acquiring control) | ~$280 Million | Diageo begins acquisition of USL — major shift |
| 2014 | Diageo/USL | ~$300 Million | Yuvraj Singh bought for record INR 14 crore |
| 2015 | Diageo/USL | ~$320 Million | Kohli scores 973 runs — IPL batting record in a season |
| 2016 | Diageo/USL — Mallya exits | ~$350 Million | Third IPL Final appearance (lost to SRH). Mallya flees India |
| 2017 | Diageo — Full operational control | ~$370 Million | Missed playoffs — major squad overhaul needed |
| 2018 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$400 Million | Returned to playoffs after rebuilding |
| 2019 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$450 Million | Kohli becomes highest run-scorer in IPL history |
| 2020 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$500 Million | Reached playoffs in UAE bubble — COVID year |
| 2021 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$550 Million | Missed playoffs — Kohli steps down as T20I captain |
| 2022 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$600 Million | Mega auction — Faf du Plessis named captain |
| 2023 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | ~$700 Million | WPL team acquired for INR 901 crore ($110M) |
| 2024 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | $117 Million (brand) | Won WPL 2024! Kohli wins Orange Cap in IPL |
| 2025 | United Spirits Ltd (Diageo) | $269 Million (brand) | WON FIRST IPL TITLE! Sale process begins |
| 2026 | Aditya Birla Consortium | $1.78 BILLION (sale) | Biggest cricket franchise deal in history! |
Key Insight: RCB’s brand value was only $117 million in 2024. But after winning the 2025 IPL title, it jumped 130% to $269 million. And the actual sale price of $1.78 billion reflects not just the brand value, but the full business value including future media rights, WPL team, and commercial potential.
Section 4: Brand Ambassadors — Faces of RCB Through the Years
RCB has always understood the power of celebrity association. The franchise has tied itself to Bollywood’s biggest names alongside its cricketing icons.
- 2008 — Katrina Kaif (2008)
The very first brand ambassador of RCB, Katrina was the glamorous face of the franchise in its inaugural season. She attended matches and appeared in promotional campaigns, setting the tone for RCB’s celebrity-heavy brand identity.
- 2009-11 — Deepika Padukone (2009–2011)
Bollywood’s global superstar took over as brand ambassador in the years RCB reached their first two finals. Deepika’s association helped RCB build a massive urban fanbase, particularly among younger audiences.
- Regional Ambassadors — South Indian Cinema Stars (Various years)
Puneeth Rajkumar, Shiva Rajkumar, Ramya, Upendra, and Ganesh — Kannada cinema’s biggest names — all served as regional brand ambassadors, cementing RCB’s deep roots in Bengaluru and Karnataka culture. Puneeth Rajkumar in particular was almost synonymous with RCB before his tragic passing.
- The Real Ambassador — Virat Kohli (Forever the Unofficial Face)
No official brand ambassador has meant more to RCB than Virat Kohli himself. Since 2008, Kohli has been THE face of this franchise. His jersey, his presence, his social media — all things Kohli drive RCB’s commercial engine more than any paid ambassador ever could. RCB’s 50+ million social media followers are largely Kohli fans.
Section 5: RCB Sponsors & Official Partners (2025–26)
RCB’s sponsor portfolio reflects its premium brand positioning. Here is the complete list of key sponsors as of IPL 2025-26:
| Sponsor/Partner | Category | Details |
| Nothing (2026) | Title Sponsor | London-based consumer tech brand. Logo on front of jersey replacing Qatar Airways |
| Qatar Airways (2023-25) | Former Title Sponsor | International airline. Deal ended after IPL 2025 season |
| KEI Wires & Cables | Principal Partner | Logo on back of jersey. 3-year deal since IPL 2023 |
| Reliance JIO | Principal Partner | Logo on left sleeve. Partner since 2018 with all IPL teams |
| PUMA | Official Kit Supplier | 3-year deal from 2021. Designs and sells replica jerseys |
| Birla Estates | Associate Sponsor | Real estate arm of Aditya Birla Group. Logo on trousers |
| Delhivery | Principal Sponsor | Indian logistics company. Top-right corner of matchday shirt |
| boAt | Audio/Wearable Partner | Indian audio and lifestyle brand |
| Dream11 | Official Partner | Fantasy sports platform — official partner since 2023 |
| Amul | Official Partner | India’s iconic dairy brand — long-term partner |
| Nippon Paint | Associate Sponsor | Japanese paint company, Indian arm |
| Bigbasket (Tata) | Quick Commerce Partner | Online grocery — official quick commerce partner |
| Bisleri | Hydration Partner | Packaged drinking water — official hydration partner |
| Manipal Hospitals | Healthcare Partner | Bengaluru-based hospital chain |
| Alliance University | Learning Partner | Private university in Bengaluru |
Kit Manufacturers through the years: Reebok (2008–2014) → Adidas (2015) → Zeven (2016–2019) → Wrogn/Virat Kohli’s brand (2020) → PUMA (2021–present)
Section 6: RCB’s Most Expensive Player — Every Season (2008–2026)
RCB has been one of the boldest spenders at IPL auctions, spending over ₹1,450 crore total across 18 seasons. Here is their most expensive acquisition in every year:
| Year | Player | Price (INR) | Role | Result |
| 2008 | Jacques Kallis (Icon Player) | ~3.5 Cr | All-Rounder | Good — 238 runs |
| 2009 | Kevin Pietersen | 9.8 Cr | Batsman | Brief tenure, decent |
| 2010 | AB de Villiers | 4.5 Cr | Wicketkeeper-Bat | Excellent — Legend! |
| 2011 | Tillakaratne Dilshan | 5 Cr | Opener | Average |
| 2012 | Chris Gayle | Retained | Opener | Brilliant — 733 runs |
| 2013 | Virat Kohli | Retained | Batsman-Captain | Consistent |
| 2014 | Yuvraj Singh | 14 Cr* | All-Rounder | Decent — 376 runs |
| 2015 | AB de Villiers | Retained | Batsman | Excellent |
| 2016 | Shane Watson | 9.5 Cr | All-Rounder | Very Good — Final |
| 2017 | Tymal Mills | 12 Cr | Fast Bowler | Below expectations |
| 2018 | Quinton de Kock | 6.25 Cr | WK-Batsman | Decent |
| 2019 | Marcus Stoinis | 6.2 Cr | All-Rounder | Good |
| 2020 | Chris Morris | 10 Cr | All-Rounder | Very Good |
| 2021 | Kyle Jamieson | 15 Cr | Fast Bowler | Disappointing |
| 2022 | Faf du Plessis | 7 Cr (Mega) | Batsman-Captain | Excellent — 468 runs |
| 2023 | Faf du Plessis | Retained | Batsman-Captain | Very Good |
| 2024 | Virat Kohli | Retained (21 Cr) | Batsman | Orange Cap — 741 runs |
| 2025 | Josh Hazlewood | 12.5 Cr | Fast Bowler | Excellent — Title Win! |
| 2026 | Venkatesh Iyer | ~7 Cr | All-Rounder | Season ongoing |
*Note: 2008–2013 prices are approximate conversions from USD to INR. Icon players (like Rahul Dravid in 2008) and retained players are noted separately. Yuvraj Singh’s 2014 bid of ₹14 crore was the highest by any team that year — making RCB the biggest spender. Kyle Jamieson’s ₹15 crore in 2021 was RCB’s highest-ever individual auction bid at that time.
Section 7: RCB’s Biggest Rivalries — Season by Season (2008–2026)
Cricket rivalries are the lifeblood of the IPL. For RCB, every season brought a different nemesis — a team that stood between them and glory. Here is the complete rivalry story:
| Year | Main Rival | H2H Result | Key Moment |
| 2008 | Chennai Super Kings | RCB 0 – CSK 2 | CSK dominated the first ever RCB-CSK encounters |
| 2009 | Deccan Chargers | RCB LOST FINAL | RCB reached Final but lost by 6 runs to Deccan Chargers |
| 2010 | Mumbai Indians | RCB 1 – MI 1 | MI beat RCB multiple times but neither reached final |
| 2011 | Chennai Super Kings | RCB LOST FINAL | Epic final — CSK beat RCB in the title match |
| 2012 | Kolkata Knight Riders | KKR dominated | KKR won the title — RCB failed to qualify for playoffs |
| 2013 | Mumbai Indians | MI won title | RCB missed playoffs; Kohli named captain |
| 2014 | Kings XI Punjab | Mixed | RCB finished 7th — Yuvraj disappoints |
| 2015 | Chennai Super Kings | CSK won 3/3 meetings | Kohli’s 973 runs — but CSK beat RCB in all 3 encounters that season |
| 2016 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | RCB LOST FINAL | Most painful Final loss — David Warner leads SRH to title over RCB by 8 runs |
| 2017 | Mumbai Indians | MI won title | RCB bottomed out — finished 8th; Kohli injured too |
| 2018 | Chennai Super Kings | CSK won title | CSK comeback season after 2-year ban; RCB reached playoffs but lost |
| 2019 | Mumbai Indians | MI 2 – RCB 0 | MI won record 4th title; RCB had their worst finish ever |
| 2020 | Mumbai Indians | MI won title | RCB reached playoffs in UAE but eliminated by SRH in eliminator |
| 2021 | Chennai Super Kings | CSK won title | RCB missed playoffs in second half after great start |
| 2022 | Rajasthan Royals | RR beat RCB | New captain Faf; RR won the season under Sanju Samson |
| 2023 | Gujarat Titans / CSK | CSK won title | RCB exited early — GT and CSK clashed in a rain-soaked final |
| 2024 | CSK (virtual quarterfinal) | RCB WON! | RCB knocked CSK out with a last-over thriller — Yash Dayal hero |
| 2025 | Punjab Kings | RCB WON FINAL! | RCB won 1st-ever IPL title by 6 runs vs PBKS — Greatest moment! |
| 2026 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Season ongoing | RCB defend title — new owners, same fierce rivalry |
7.1 The Greatest Rivalries Deep Dive
RCB vs CSK — The Titans of the South
This is the El Clásico of Indian cricket. Two teams from South India, both with massive fanbases, both carrying the weight of two of cricket’s greatest icons — Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. Their meetings have consistently been the most-watched matches in IPL history.
CSK dominated this rivalry for over a decade. From 2012 to 2023, CSK won 14 of their 20 encounters. The most brutal example came in 2015 — CSK and RCB met three times that season and CSK won all three. But the tide turned dramatically in 2024, when RCB needed to beat CSK in the last league match with a big margin to qualify for the playoffs. What followed was one of IPL’s most thrilling finishes — Yash Dayal’s last over, 35 runs to defend, and RCB surviving by the skin of their teeth to knock CSK out and qualify.
RCB vs SRH — The 2016 Wound That Never Healed
The 2016 IPL Final was RCB’s greatest heartbreak before 2025. Standing between them and their first title were the Sunrisers Hyderabad, led by David Warner and a ferocious bowling attack. RCB, with Kohli (973 runs that season) and AB de Villiers in devastating form, were favorites. But Chris Gayle and others failed at critical moments, and SRH won by 8 runs. For RCB fans, that match lived as the most painful memory for nearly a decade — until 2025 finally erased it.
RCB vs KKR — The Original Derby
The very first match in IPL history — April 18, 2008 — was played between KKR and RCB at Eden Gardens. Brendon McCullum smashed an extraordinary 158* off 73 balls, and KKR won by 140 runs. That first match set up one of the league’s most consistent rivalries. RCB and KKR are geographically and culturally contrasting — the tech-savvy Bengaluru crowd versus the passionate Kolkata crowd — and their matches are always electric.
RCB vs MI — The Rich Man’s Rivalry
Mumbai Indians and RCB are the two most commercially valuable franchises in the IPL, and their rivalry has often been about bragging rights beyond cricket. MI have dominated most of their head-to-head encounters, particularly in knockout scenarios. But with each passing season, RCB has grown more competitive, and post-2025, the power dynamic between these two giants is genuinely balanced.
Section 8: RCB’s PR Strategy — How They Built the Biggest Fanbase in Cricket
8.1 Digital Dominance
50+ Million followers across all social media platforms as of January 2026. RCB has been the most engaged IPL team for five consecutive years, recording over 2 billion total interactions (likes, comments, shares) in 2025 alone.
Their Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube, and Facebook are run with the professionalism of a global media company. Match-day content, behind-the-scenes footage, Virat Kohli’s presence, and RCB’s unique ‘challenger spirit’ narrative — all contribute to a content machine that no other IPL team matches.
8.2 The ‘Ee Saala Cup Namde’ Phenomenon
Translating loosely from Kannada as ‘This Year The Cup Is Ours’, this phrase became RCB’s defining PR asset. For years it was a joke — and RCB leaned into it, making it part of their brand identity. This self-aware humor, combined with genuine hope, created a deeply loyal fanbase that stuck with the team through heartbreak after heartbreak. When the cup finally came in 2025, the viral moment of fans screaming ‘Ee Saala Cup Namde’ was seen by hundreds of millions globally.
8.3 RCB Bar & Cafe
RCB opened the RCB Bar & Cafe in Bengaluru — a physical brand touchpoint that serves as a restaurant, museum, and fan zone simultaneously. It became one of the most visited restaurants in Bengaluru, generating revenue year-round, not just during cricket season. This was an innovative PR and revenue move that no other IPL franchise has replicated at the same scale.
8.4 The Virat Kohli Factor
Virat Kohli is not just RCB’s best player — he is their PR department, their marketing engine, and their soul. The only cricketer to represent one IPL franchise for 18 consecutive years, Kohli’s loyalty to RCB has created an emotional bond with fans that no amount of money can buy. Analysts estimate Kohli adds a 10-15% premium to RCB’s market value purely through his brand association.
Section 9: RCB’s Annual Economics & Revenue
9.1 Revenue Streams (FY 2024-25)
Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd reported revenue of approximately ₹504 crore in FY25. Here is how that breaks down:
- BCCI Central Pool Distribution: ~₹250-300 crore per year (all teams receive this equally from broadcast rights and title sponsorship)
- Team Sponsorships and Partnerships: ~₹100-130 crore (jersey sponsors, associate partners, official partners)
- Ticket Sales and Stadium Revenue: ~₹40-60 crore (home matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium)
- Merchandise Sales: ~₹30-50 crore (jerseys, accessories — massively boosted after 2025 title win)
- RCB Bar & Cafe: ~₹15-25 crore (year-round hospitality revenue)
- Digital Content & Media: ~₹20-30 crore (YouTube, streaming, branded content)
9.2 Annual Expenses
- Player Salaries (Salary Cap): Up to ₹151 crore total cap (including match fees)
- Operations (Travel, Accommodation, Logistics): ~₹40-60 crore
- Marketing and Promotions: ~₹20-30 crore
- Stadium Operations and Support Staff: ~₹15-25 crore
- BCCI Revenue Share: ~20% of franchise-owned revenue
9.3 Profitability
Based on available data, top IPL teams like RCB generate annual profits in the range of ₹80-150 crore. Post-title-win in 2025, RCB’s commercial position improved significantly, with enhanced sponsor rates and merchandise demand. The new ownership under Aditya Birla Group is expected to push revenue to ₹700-800 crore annually within the next 2-3 seasons through aggressive brand-building and global expansion.
Section 10: Complete Season-by-Season Performance
Here is the bird’s-eye view of RCB’s 18-season journey:
- 2008 — Finished 7th. Rahul Dravid as Icon Player. Early exit.
- 2009 — RUNNERS-UP. Reached Final under Anil Kumble’s captaincy. Lost to Deccan Chargers by 6 runs. Kevin Pietersen signed for record ₹9.8 crore.
- 2010 — 8th place. AB de Villiers signed. Kumble still captain.
- 2011 — RUNNERS-UP. Chris Gayle arrives mid-season and transforms everything. Gayle’s century-making rampage. Lost Final to CSK. Reached Champions League Final too.
- 2012 — 5th place. Gayle scores 733 runs in the season — IPL record at the time. RCB failed to qualify for playoffs despite individual brilliance.
- 2013 — Missed playoffs. Virat Kohli takes over as captain. New era begins.
- 2014 — 7th place. Yuvraj Singh bought for record ₹14 crore. Disappointing season.
- 2015 — 3rd place. Virat Kohli scores 973 runs — the IPL batting record in a single season that still stands. But CSK blocked them.
- 2016 — RUNNERS-UP. Best season before 2025. Kohli scores 4 centuries. Final heartbreak — lost to SRH by 8 runs.
- 2017 — 8th place. Worst season in years. Injuries and form failures derailed the campaign.
- 2018 — Qualified for playoffs. New energy. AB de Villiers match-winner but season ended in knockout.
- 2019 — 8th place. Worst finish ever. Kohli sets IPL all-time run scoring record (passes Raina).
- 2020 — Qualified for playoffs. COVID season in UAE. Chris Morris excellent. Eliminated by SRH.
- 2021 — 4th place. Qualified but lost eliminator. Kohli announces he’ll step down as T20I captain.
- 2022 — Qualified for playoffs. Mega auction. Faf du Plessis as captain. Lost Eliminator.
- 2023 — Missed playoffs. Despite strong starts, season faded. Women’s team won WPL 2024!
- 2024 — Qualified from bottom. Down 7 of 8 games, then won 6 straight. Kohli won Orange Cap with 741 runs. Knocked CSK out in last-ball thriller. Lost Eliminator to RR.
- 2025 — CHAMPIONS! Won maiden IPL title under captain Rajat Patidar. Beat Punjab Kings by 6 runs in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Kohli top-scored in the final with 43. 18 years of heartbreak ended!
- 2026 — Defending title. New owners. Same passion. Season ongoing.
RCB — More Than a Cricket Team
In 18 years, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has gone from an experiment to an empire. They were bought for ₹446 crore and sold for ₹16,660 crore. They lost three finals before winning one. They made Virat Kohli the face of Indian cricket. They made Bengaluru the cricket capital of the country.
But perhaps most importantly, RCB proved something the entire sporting world needed to see: that fan loyalty, passion, and a never-give-up spirit can build more commercial value than trophies alone. For 17 years, they had no title and yet commanded the biggest following in the IPL. That is brand-building at its most extraordinary.
Now with the Aditya Birla Group at the helm, Blackstone’s financial muscle behind them, Times Group’s media ecosystem supercharging their digital reach, and David Blitzer’s global sports network opening international doors, RCB is entering a new golden chapter.
The cup has come. The dynasty may just be beginning. Ee Saala Cup Namde — and every saala after that too.
| RCB QUICK FACTS AT A GLANCE |
| Home Ground: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru (Capacity: ~35,000) |
| Founded: 2008 | Original Owner: Vijay Mallya (United Breweries Group) |
| Current Owner: Aditya Birla Group consortium — $1.78 billion deal (March 2026) |
| IPL Titles: 1 (2025) | Runner-Up: 3 times (2009, 2011, 2016) |
| WPL Titles: 2 (WPL 2024 and WPL 2026) |
| Brand Value: $269 million (Houlihan Lokey 2025 study) — Highest in IPL |
| Captain (2026): Rajat Patidar |
| Head Coach (2026): Andy Flower |
| Most Runs in IPL: Virat Kohli — 8,000+ runs (all for RCB) |
| Social Media Followers: 50+ million across platforms — Most followed IPL team |
| Kit Manufacturer: PUMA (since 2021) |
| Title Sponsor 2026: Nothing (consumer tech brand) |
| Biggest Rivals: CSK, SRH, MI, KKR |
| Net Worth Growth: From $111.6M (2008) to $1.78B (2026) = ~16x in dollar terms |
RCB IPL 2026 Full Squad – Complete Details
Here is the accurate and updated RCB squad for IPL 2026 (25 players).
Batters
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Status | Price (₹ Cr) | Base Price (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | Batter | Indian | Retained | 21.00 | – |
| Rajat Patidar (Captain) | Batter | Indian | Retained | 11.00 | – |
| Devdutt Padikkal | Batter | Indian | Retained | 2.00 | – |
Wicket-Keepers / WK-Batters
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Status | Price (₹ Cr) | Base Price (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phil Salt | WK-Batter | Overseas (ENG) | Retained | 11.50 | – |
| Jitesh Sharma | WK-Batter | Indian | Retained | 11.00 | – |
| Jordan Cox | WK-Batter | Overseas (ENG) | Auction Buy | 0.75 | 0.75 |
All-Rounders
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Status | Price (₹ Cr) | Base Price (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venkatesh Iyer | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 7.00 | 2.00 |
| Krunal Pandya | All-rounder | Indian | Retained | 5.75 | – |
| Mangesh Yadav | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 5.20 | 0.30 |
| Tim David | All-rounder | Overseas (AUS) | Retained | 3.00 | – |
| Jacob Bethell | All-rounder | Overseas (ENG) | Retained | 2.60 | – |
| Romario Shepherd | All-rounder | Overseas (WI) | Retained | 1.50 | – |
| Swapnil Singh | All-rounder | Indian | Retained | 0.50 | – |
| Satvik Deswal | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 0.30 | 0.30 |
| Vicky Ostwal | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 0.30 | 0.30 |
| Vihaan Malhotra | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 0.30 | 0.30 |
| Kanishk Chouhan | All-rounder | Indian | Auction Buy | 0.30 | 0.30 |
Bowlers
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Status | Price (₹ Cr) | Base Price (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler | Overseas (AUS) | Retained | 12.50 | – |
| Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Bowler | Indian | Retained | 10.75 | – |
| Rasikh Salam (Dar) | Bowler | Indian | Retained | 6.00 | – |
| Yash Dayal | Bowler | Indian | Retained | 5.00 | – |
| Suyash Sharma | Bowler | Indian | Retained | 2.60 | – |
| Jacob Duffy | Bowler | Overseas (NZ) | Auction Buy | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Nuwan Thushara | Bowler | Overseas (SL) | Retained | 1.60 | – |
| Abhinandan Singh | Bowler | Indian | Retained | 0.30 | – |
- Total Players: 25 (17 Indian + 8 Overseas)
- Retained before auction: 17 players (spent ₹108.60 Cr)
- Bought in mini-auction: 8 players (spent ₹16.15 Cr)
- Total purse used: Almost full (only ₹25 lakh left)
RCB Full League Matches Schedule
Here is the list of RCB matches with date, day, opponent, time and venue:
| No. | Date | Day | Opponent | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 March 2026 | Saturday | Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | Bengaluru (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 2 | 5 April 2026 | Sunday | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | Bengaluru (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 3 | 10 April 2026 | Friday | Rajasthan Royals (RR) | Guwahati (Away) | 7:30 PM |
| 4 | 12 April 2026 | Sunday | Mumbai Indians (MI) | Mumbai (Away) | 7:30 PM |
| 5 | 15 April 2026 | Wednesday | Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | Bengaluru (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 6 | 18 April 2026 | Saturday | Delhi Capitals (DC) | Bengaluru (Home) | 3:30 PM |
| 7 | 24 April 2026 | Friday | Gujarat Titans (GT) | Bengaluru (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 8 | 27 April 2026 | Monday | Delhi Capitals (DC) | Delhi (Away) | 7:30 PM |
| 9 | 30 April 2026 | Thursday | Gujarat Titans (GT) | Ahmedabad (Away) | 7:30 PM |
| 10 | 7 May 2026 | Thursday | Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | Lucknow (Away) | 7:30 PM |
| 11 | 10 May 2026 | Sunday | Mumbai Indians (MI) | Raipur (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 12 | 13 May 2026 | Wednesday | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | Raipur (Home) | 7:30 PM |
| 13 | 17 May 2026 | Sunday | Punjab Kings (PBKS) | Dharamshala (Away) | 3:30 PM |
| 14 | 22 May 2026 | Friday | Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | Hyderabad (Away) | 7:30 PM |
Note: First 7-8 matches are confirmed. Rest dates may change slightly.
Most Awaited RCB Matches in IPL 2026
RCB vs PBKS The match between RCB and PBKS is always very close. These two teams have played 37 times in IPL history. RCB has won 19 matches while PBKS has won 18. Their 2026 game is on 17 May in Dharamshala.
RCB vs CSK RCB vs CSK is one of the biggest rivalries in IPL. Fans love this match because both teams have strong batting line-ups. RCB will face CSK at home on 5 April in Bengaluru.
RCB vs DC RCB has a good record against Delhi Capitals. This match is easy to predict as fun because both teams play attacking cricket. RCB plays DC twice – once at home on 18 April and once away.
LSG vs RCB Lucknow Super Giants vs RCB is always a good contest. LSG has strong all-rounders while RCB has explosive batters. They will meet in Lucknow on 7 May.
RCB vs RR RCB vs Rajasthan Royals is a hard and competitive match. Both teams have young captains and powerful middle orders. This game is scheduled for 10 April in Guwahati.
RCB vs GT Gujarat Titans vs RCB is a medium-difficulty but important match for points. GT has a strong bowling attack. RCB will play them at home on 24 April.
RCB vs KKR RCB vs Kolkata Knight Riders is a favorite among fans. KKR plays very fast cricket. RCB faces them on 13 May in Raipur.
RCB vs MI The RCB vs Mumbai Indians match is a classic. MI is one of the most successful teams. RCB will play them on 12 April in Mumbai and again on 10 May in Raipur.
RCB vs SRH
RCB already played SRH on 28 March and won by 6 wickets. SRH vs RCB is always high-scoring. The return match is on 22 May in Hyderabad.
RCB vs SRH – Match Summary (28 March 2026)
RCB vs SRH was the opening match of IPL 2026. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru got off to a flying start with a comfortable victory.
Match Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 6 wickets (with 26 balls remaining).
Score Details:
- SRH: 201/9 in 20 overs
- RCB: 203/4 in 15.4 overs
Key Highlights:
- Virat Kohli played a brilliant unbeaten knock of 69 runs off 38 balls.
- Devdutt Padikkal smashed a quick 61 runs off just 26 balls.
- Jacob Duffy was named Player of the Match for his excellent bowling (3 wickets for 22 runs).
- For SRH, Ishan Kishan scored 80 runs but could not stop RCB’s strong chase.
RCB chased down the target of 202 in just 15.4 overs and also set a new record for the fastest 200+ chase in IPL history. This win gave RCB the perfect start to their title defence.
RCB Complete IPL Record (2008 to 2025) – 18 Seasons
Here is the full year-wise record of Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
| Year | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | No Result / Tie | Position | Final Stage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 14 | 4 | 10 | 0 | 7th | League Stage |
| 2009 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 2nd | Runners-up |
| 2010 | 16 | 8 | 8 | 0 | 4th | Playoffs (3rd) |
| 2011 | 17 | 10 | 6 | 1 | 2nd | Runners-up |
| 2012 | 16 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 5th | League Stage |
| 2013 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 5th | League Stage |
| 2014 | 14 | 5 | 9 | 0 | 7th | League Stage |
| 2015 | 16 | 7 | 8 | 1 | 3rd | Playoffs |
| 2016 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 2nd | Runners-up |
| 2017 | 14 | 3 | 10 | 1 | 8th | League Stage |
| 2018 | 14 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 6th | League Stage |
| 2019 | 14 | 5 | 8 | 1 | 8th | League Stage |
| 2020 | 15 | 7 | 8 | 0 | 4th | Playoffs |
| 2021 | 15 | 9 | 6 | 0 | 3rd | Playoffs |
| 2022 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 4th | Playoffs |
| 2023 | 14 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 6th | League Stage |
| 2024 | 15 | 7 | 8 | 0 | 4th | Playoffs |
| 2025 | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 1st | Champions |
Quick Summary:
- Total Matches: 265+
- Total Wins: Around 127-132
- Best Season: 2025 (First IPL Title)
- Runners-up: 3 times (2009, 2011, 2016)
- Worst Seasons: 2008, 2017, and 2019 (Bottom positions)
RCB finally ended their 18-year wait and became IPL Champions in 2025 by beating Punjab Kings in the final.
Read more about~ 10 Strange and Unique IPL Rules That Make the League Different (2026)
RCB Head-to-Head Records (Overall IPL History till 2025)
Here are records against main teams (Total Matches Played, Wins, Losses):
| Opponent | Total Matches | RCB Wins | RCB Losses | Notes (Important Years & Stages) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | 35 | 13 | 21 | Very tough rival. Lost many close games including finals. |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | 34 | 14 | 19 | Lost in many playoffs and league matches. |
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | 35 | 15 | 20 | Mixed record, some big wins. |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | ~25 | 12-13 | 12-13 | Good record recently. Won opening match in 2026. |
| Rajasthan Royals (RR) | ~30 | 15 | 14 | Almost equal, many exciting games. |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | 33 | 20 | 12 | RCB has good record against DC. |
| Punjab Kings (PBKS) | 37 | 19 | 18 | Very close. Beat them in 2025 Final. |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | 6-8 | 3 | 3-4 | Newer team, balanced record. |
| Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | 6-8 | 4 | 2-3 | Good record so far. |
RCB vs SRH (2026): Already played on 28 March — RCB won by 6 wickets.
- RCB plays 14 league matches.
- They have already started with a win against SRH.
- Strongest rival: CSK and MI (RCB has more losses against them).
- Best record: Against DC and PBKS.
RCB Squad 2026
RCB kept most of their winning players from 2025. Captain is Rajat Patidar. Coach is Andy Flower.
Full List of Main Players (Retained + New Buys):
- Virat Kohli
- Rajat Patidar (Captain)
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Phil Salt (Wicket-keeper)
- Jitesh Sharma (Wicket-keeper)
- Tim David
- Krunal Pandya
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Jacob Bethell
- Romario Shepherd
- Josh Hazlewood
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Yash Dayal
- Rasikh Dar (Rasikh Salam)
- Suyash Sharma
- Swapnil Singh
- Nuwan Thushara
- Others like Jordan Cox, Abhinandan Singh
Role-wise Breakup:
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt |
| Wicket-keepers | Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Jordan Cox |
| All-rounders | Krunal Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Swapnil Singh |
| Bowlers | Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Nuwan Thushara |
This squad looks very balanced. They have power hitters at the top and experienced bowlers at the end.
Strengths of the Team
RCB has many good things:
- Strong batting: Virat Kohli is the king of runs. Phil Salt and others can hit very fast at the start. Middle order is also powerful.
- Good all-rounders: Players like Krunal Pandya and Venkatesh Iyer can bat and bowl. This helps the team a lot.
- Death bowling: Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are very smart in the last overs.
- Home advantage: At Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB scores big runs and wins many matches.
- Champion mindset: They won in 2025, so they believe they can win again.
- Leadership: Rajat Patidar as captain and Virat Kohli as senior guide make a great pair.
Weaknesses and Challenges
Every team has some weak points:
- Bowling can sometimes be expensive on big grounds away from home.
- Middle order needs to be more consistent.
- They must use overseas players (foreign players) in the best way.
- Pressure of defending the title – every team will try extra hard to beat the champions.
Key Players to Watch in 2026
- Virat Kohli He is the biggest star. In 2025 he scored many runs and helped win the final. He is fit, focused, and still one of the best batters in the world. Fans love his energy.
- Rajat Patidar (Captain) Young and brave batter. He leads the team well and hits big shots.
- Phil Salt Explosive opener from England. He starts the innings very fast.
- Krunal Pandya All-rounder who bowls smartly and bats in the middle. He was Player of the Match in the 2025 final.
- Josh Hazlewood Tall Australian fast bowler. He takes important wickets.
Emerging talents like Yash Dayal, Rasikh Dar, and Jacob Bethell can surprise everyone this season.
Read more about~ What Is Impact Player in IPL? Rule and Role?(2026)
Strategy and Playing XI Prediction
Likely Playing 11 (can change):
- Phil Salt (WK)
- Virat Kohli
- Devdutt Padikkal / Rajat Patidar
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Jitesh Sharma / Tim David
- Krunal Pandya
- Romario Shepherd
- Yash Dayal
- Josh Hazlewood
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Suyash Sharma / Rasikh Dar
Impact Player Strategy: They can bring in an extra bowler or batter depending on the match. At home (Chinnaswamy), they like to bat first and set big targets. On slow pitches, they may chase.
Fixtures and Tough Matches
RCB will play many strong teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans. Matches against last year’s finalists PBKS will be very exciting. Home games in Bengaluru will be full of noise and fun.
Fan Expectations and Verdict
RCB fans are very happy after the 2025 win. They want the team to defend the title and win again. Many believe RCB can reach the playoffs easily and go to the final. With Virat Kohli and a balanced team, their chances look good.
My simple prediction: RCB will reach the playoffs for sure. They have a strong chance to reach the final again. “Ee Sala Cup Namde” can become true once more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the full schedule of RCB in IPL 2026?
RCB will play 14 league matches in IPL 2026. Their first match was against SRH on 28 March, and the last league match is on 22 May against SRH. Full schedule is given above in this article.
Q2. When is RCB vs KKR match in IPL 2026?
RCB vs KKR match will be played on 13 May 2026 in Raipur.
Q3. When is RCB vs DC and DC vs RCB in 2026?
RCB will face Delhi Capitals twice – on 18 April 2026 in Bengaluru and 27 April 2026 in Delhi.
Q4. When is LSG vs RCB match?
LSG vs RCB match is scheduled for 7 May 2026 in Lucknow.
Q5. Who is the captain of RCB in IPL 2026?
Rajat Patidar is the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026. Virat Kohli is the senior leader and mentor of the team.
Q6. Has RCB won any IPL title?
Yes, RCB won their first IPL title in 2025 by defeating Punjab Kings in the final. They are the defending champions in 2026.
Q7. What is RCB’s squad for IPL 2026?
RCB has a strong squad including Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, and many more. Full squad list is given above.
Q8. How many times has RCB reached the IPL final?
RCB has reached the IPL final 4 times (2009, 2011, 2016, and 2025). They won the title in 2025.
Q9. Where can I watch RCB matches live?
You can watch all RCB matches live on our website. We provide live score, ball-by-ball commentary, and match updates.
Q10. Will RCB win IPL 2026?
RCB has a very strong team and good form. Most experts believe they have a strong chance to reach the playoffs and even defend their title successfully.
Conclusion
RCB has come a long way from 2008 to becoming champions in 2025. In 2026 they are stronger and more experienced. Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and the full squad are ready to play bold cricket.
Which match are you most excited for – RCB vs PBKS, RCB vs CSK, or RCB vs DC? Let us know in the comments!
Go RCB! Ee Sala Cup Namde Again! 💛❤️
Aarav Sharma is a passionate cricket content writer with a strong focus on IPL schedules, match fixtures, team updates, venues, and tournament coverage. He writes in simple, reader-friendly language so fans can quickly find the information they need, from match dates and start times to playoff details and final updates.