Former India batter Suresh Raina suggested that the 2025 IPL champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), should part ways with star all-rounder Liam Livingstone ahead of the IPL 2026 auction (via Star Sports’ Instagram). The 32-year-old was among RCB’s major signings in the 2025 auction, bought for ₹8.75 crore.
Despite RCB lifting their maiden IPL title, Livingstone endured a disappointing season, managing only 112 runs at an average of 16 across 10 matches. However, Raina opined that RCB should retain two other overseas performers — Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt.
Hazlewood spearheaded the bowling attack with 22 wickets at an impressive average of under 18 in 12 games. While Hazlewood was acquired for ₹12.50 crore, Salt joined RCB for ₹11.50 crore. The English opener made a strong impact in his debut season for the franchise, amassing 403 runs at an average of 33.58 and a blistering strike rate nearing 176 in 13 matches.
Meanwhile, all franchises are set to submit their retention and release lists for the IPL 2026 auction on Saturday, November 15.
Suresh Raina Urges RCB To Hold On To Two of Their Key Indian Stars
Suresh Raina also urged Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to retain Indian players Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jitesh Sharma ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Bhuvneshwar delivered consistent performances with the new ball and in the death overs during the 2025 season, claiming 17 wickets at an average of 28.41 across 14 matches.
Jitesh Sharma, meanwhile, proved to be one of RCB’s underrated contributors in their title-winning campaign, playing crucial cameos in the middle and lower order. The wicketkeeper-batter accumulated 261 runs at an impressive average of over 37 and a strike rate of 176.35 in 15 games.
Bhuvneshwar was among RCB’s high-value pace signings in the 2025 auction, purchased for ₹10.75 crore, while Jitesh joined the squad for a similar sum of ₹11 crore.
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