RCB Retention List: Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone and Lungi Ngidi Released

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have released England all-rounder Liam Livingstone — their most notable overseas exit — ahead of the IPL 2026 auction scheduled for December 16.

Joining him on the release list are South Africa’s pace bowler Lungi Ngidi, New Zealand power-hitter Tim Seifert, and Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani. Youngster Swastik Chikara, who didn’t feature in a single game, has also been let go, along with Mayank Agarwal, who was brought in last season as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal.

Left-arm quick Yash Dayal, who led RCB’s bowling attack during their title-winning run, has been retained for the franchise’s 19th IPL season. Dayal has been out of action since June 3 and is currently dealing with legal issues following allegations by a woman from Ghaziabad.


Director of Cricket Mo Bobat said the team’s focus was on preserving stability while pushing for further improvement.
“After such a strong season, we wanted to maintain continuity while also enhancing the squad. We aim to arrive stronger than last year and create competition for places through the auction,” Bobat said.

He also praised the team’s unity last season, crediting head coach Andy Flower, captain Rajat Patidar and senior players for creating a cohesive dressing-room environment.
“It’s always tough to say goodbye to players who were part of that journey,” he added.

Head coach Andy Flower echoed similar sentiments, saying the franchise is “comfortable retaining a strong core” and will use their Rs 16.4 crore auction purse to fill key gaps.
“We have a solid squad with a winning record. I feel for the players who are leaving, but we will aim to strengthen further,” he said.

Flower added that the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, beginning November 26, will be a crucial scouting opportunity.
“Mo and Malolan have built an excellent scouting network. We’re tracking form and fitness closely, both domestically and internationally,” he said.

Retained Players:
Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Krunal Pandya, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Devdutt Padikkal, Nuwan Thushara, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, Suyash Sharma, Swapnil Singh, Yash Dayal, Abhinandan Singh, Rasikh Dar.

Released Players:
Swastik Chikara, Mayank Agarwal, Tim Seifert, Liam Livingstone, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Blessing Muzarabani, Mohit Rathee.