IPL 2026: Predicting the strongest playing XI of RR after retentions

Rajasthan Royals head into IPL 2026 with an attack-minded XI that blends explosive top-order power, seasoned finishers and a pace-heavy bowling unit. 

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Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi form a dizzying new-ball duo. Jaiswal carried the innings for RR across the 2025 season and remains one of the most destructive openers in the tournament. Vaibhav’s record-breaking century as a 14-year-old was one of IPL 2025’s headline moments and gives Rajasthan a fearless partner who can seize powerplay overs.

Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer provide middle-order firepower and versatility. Parag’s consistently high returns in recent IPL seasons and his leadership role make him the natural No.3/4 who can rotate and accelerate. Hetmyer’s boundary-clearing ability supplies the team’s middle-order strike option. Together, they bridge the power play to the finishers.

Dhruv Jurel slots in as the reliable keeper-batter. His composure and improving form in recent seasons give RR a batter who can absorb pressure and launch late-innings accelerations when required. Jurel’s technique also helps steady the middle if early wickets fall.

Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran make up a world-class all-round duo. Jadeja’s control in the middle overs, plus useful lower-order runs, balances the side, while Curran’s seam-and-power combo offers crucial wickets and late hitting. Recent trade activity moved both players into RR’s plans, underscoring how seriously the franchise is rebuilding.

The pace battery of Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma gives RR three frontline strike options and a reliable death specialist. Archer supplies raw pace and clever variations. Burger offers left-arm bounce and new-ball movement. Deshpande has repeatedly provided crucial breakthroughs, and Sandeep brings experience and control in pressure overs. That seam-heavy mix is ideal for exploiting early movement and defending at the death.

Bench options will include tactical subs and youngsters who can influence matchups. Expect captaincy and matchup calls to determine whether RR play three seamers or an extra spinner. 

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Probable Playing XI - Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma.

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