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RR Retention List 2026 has finally been revealed ahead of the new IPL cycle, and the updated squad of Rajasthan Royals has created excitement, debate, and huge discussions among cricket fans. The retention window for IPL 2026 has brought major surprises. Rajasthan Royals, known for their bold decisions, have once again taken a fresh approach to build a strong and balanced squad for the upcoming season.
Today, In this article we will look at RR Retention List 2026 on Mediafeed.
RR Retention List 2026: Announced
Rajasthan Royals have officially released their updated squad list for IPL 2026 after the retention window announcement. The team has focused on keeping a strong core while freeing up a significant amount of purse by releasing some high-value players.
The franchise has focused on rebuilding its core by releasing a few high-value players and bringing in new names through trades and smart budget decisions. This year’s list includes some major updates regarding star players like Sanju Samson, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Nitish Rana.
The newly updated squad highlights the franchise’s attempt to build a team that performs consistently in pressure situations, especially in middle overs and death overs. The management has highlighted their aim to focus more on all-round strength and match-impacting players.
RR Retained Players 2026 List
Below is the updated list of RR retained players for the 2026 IPL season (expected list based on latest updates, team patterns, and official retention special visuals):
| S.No | Player Name | Role | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yashasvi Jaiswal | Batter | India |
| 2 | Dhruv Jurel | Wicket-Keeper Batter | India |
| 3 | Riyan Parag | All-Rounder | India |
| 4 | Trent Boult | Bowler | New Zealand |
| 5 | Shimron Hetmyer | Batter | West Indies |
| 6 | Rovman Powell | All-Rounder | West Indies |
| 7 | Sandeep Sharma | Bowler | India |
| 8 | Kuldeep Sen | Bowler | India |
| 9 | Tom Kohler-Cadmore | Batter | England |
RR Released Players 2026 List
During the RR Retention List 2026, the team released some of their big names, as confirmed in the IPL retention special broadcast. Here are the top released players:
RR Major Releases
| S.No | Player Name | Role | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sanju Samson | Wicket-Keeper Batter | ₹18 Cr | Released & Traded |
| 2 | Nitish Rana | Batter | ₹4.2 Cr | Released & Traded |
| 3 | Wanindu Hasaranga | All-Rounder | ₹5.25 Cr | Released |
| 4 | Maheesh Theekshana | Bowler | ₹4.4 Cr | Released |
The release of captain Sanju Samson is the biggest shock of the retention season. RR releasing Samson marks a major shift in their long-term planning. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana being released also indicate a new strategy in the spin department.
RR Trade Players 2026 List
This year’s retention window brought some major trade news involving Rajasthan Royals. The trades shown in the retention visuals reveal the following:
| S.No | Player Name | Role | Trade Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sanju Samson | Wicket-Keeper Batter | Traded to CSK for ₹14 Cr |
| 2 | Nitish Rana | Batter | Traded to KKR |
| 3 | New trade entries expected | – | To be updated during auction |
The biggest trade move is Sanju Samson being traded to Chennai Super Kings for ₹14 Crore, which is one of the most unexpected moves of the 2026 cycle. This deal frees up a huge amount of purse for RR, allowing them to target fresh talent in the mega auction.
Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 Retention Strategy
Rajasthan Royals have taken a new direction for their squad rebuild in 2026. The team management has focused on:
Building a Young & Aggressive Core
RR has retained young stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, and Riyan Parag. These players have shown long-term potential and give stability to the team’s future. Jaiswal remains one of RR’s strongest batters, while Jurel’s wicket-keeping and finishing skills make him a key part of the squad.
Strengthening Middle Overs
With the release of Hasaranga and Theekshana, RR is likely looking to target new spinners or multi-dimensional players in the mega auction. The team wants to strengthen middle overs with attacking options, both in batting and bowling.
Rebuilding Leadership & Identity
The trade of Sanju Samson signals a new leadership plan. RR may target a fresh captain from either the retained group or future auction picks. This strategy will allow the team to form a new identity for the next 3-year cycle.
Increasing Auction Flexibility
By releasing high-value players, RR now has a large purse available for:
- Strong all-rounders
- Overseas match-winners
- A new wicket-keeper batter
- A leadership figure
- Spin specialists
Conclusion
RR Retention List 2026 marks the beginning of a major transformation for Rajasthan Royals. The management has made bold decisions by releasing and trading big names like Sanju Samson, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana. The updated squad now has a younger core, a refreshed team strategy, and a strong purse available for the upcoming auction.
RR aims to rebuild their identity and compete strongly in IPL 2026 with a more flexible and powerful lineup. Fans can expect an exciting new phase for the franchise as they prepare for one of the most competitive IPL seasons ever.
Also read: GT Retention List 2026
