As the IPL 2026 auction rapidly approaches with a player retention deadline set for November 15, franchises are strategizing hard on whom to keep ahead of this crucial window. Rajasthan Royals (RR), having endured a difficult IPL 2025 season, are now focused on rebuilding a competitive squad from Indian talent as they prepare for the auction. The Royals, who finished ninth in 2025, plan to retain promising Indian players who showed consistent promise and match-winning ability, laying the foundation for their quest to bounce back strongly in IPL 2026.
Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 performance overview
IPL 2025 turned out to be a challenging campaign for Rajasthan Royals, who finished ninth on the points table with only four wins from 14 matches. The team struggled to find consistency, with a mix of unimpressive batting displays and patchy bowling performances. One of the most noticeable setbacks was the injury to captain Sanju Samson, who missed several games.
However, the season did witness standout individual performances, including Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s record-breaking 38-ball century against Gujarat Titans and promising contributions from young Indian talent such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag. Despite the team’s struggles, these players emerged as key assets, which RR looks to retain to ensure more stability and growth in 2026.
Five Indian players Rajasthan Royals can retain ahead of IPL 2026 auction
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal
A cornerstone of RR’s batting line-up, Jaiswal played all 14 matches in IPL 2025, amassing 559 runs at an impressive average of 43 and a striking strike rate of nearly 160. His ability to consistently score runs and maintain a high strike rate makes him an indispensable player. His top score of 75 in 2025 and history of impactful innings highlight his value as a top-order batter for RR.
2. Riyan Parag
Parag, a dynamic middle-order batter and occasional bowler, also featured in all 14 matches, scoring 393 runs with an average of 32.75 and an exceptional strike rate of over 166. With a highest score of 95 and notable all-around skills, Parag provides depth and flexibility to the RR squad, making him a strong retention candidate.
3. Dhruv Jurel
The young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has proven to be reliable with the bat, scoring 333 runs in 13 innings with a solid average of 37 and a strike rate exceeding 156 in IPL 2025. His ability behind the stumps combined with his middle-order batting capabilities offers RR a valuable dual role, critical for team balance.
4. Shubham Dubey
Finisher Shubham Dubey showed his potential as an explosive lower-order batter in IPL 2025, contributing 106 runs in 8 innings at a strike rate above 160. Though his opportunities were fewer, his power-hitting and finishing skills are vital for RR’s late innings assault.
5. Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s IPL 2025 season was highlighted by a breathtaking century off just 38 balls, the fastest by an Indian in IPL history, showcasing his tremendous hitting ability. Scoring 252 runs at an average of 36 and a staggering strike rate over 206, he demonstrated match-winning firepower which RR can build upon in the future.
These five Indian players not only impressed with their performances but also embody the strategic core RR can retain to strengthen its squad for IPL 2026. Their retention will provide continuity and allow the franchise to build a competitive team around a reliable Indian contingent, especially as they navigate a challenging auction and aim to improve their standing in the upcoming season.
