IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin backs RCB to win another title within two years

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a strong chance of adding another title during the ongoing three-year IPL cycle. After securing their maiden trophy in 2025, RCB are already seen as early favourites for the upcoming season.

The franchise made a bold decision following the Indian Premier League 2024 by retaining only Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal and Rajat Patidar. They then strengthened their squad at the mega auction by bringing in Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. With their long-awaited title win breaking the drought and the team now peaking in performance, Ashwin feels RCB may not have to wait long to lift another trophy.

"RCB can add another title in the next two years with this squad. Winning the IPL is not easy, but the building blocks they have, the kind of like-for-like replacements they have. The way they have addressed the holes in the combination. This is a good package to finish in the top two," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Ashwin also believes RCB could find a way to include both Salt and Jacob Bethell in their playing XI. RCB are facing an early setback in their campaign, with Hazlewood yet to join the squad. The Australian pacer is likely to miss the opening fixtures after struggling with injuries in recent months and is still in the process of recovery while awaiting full fitness clearance.

"In all honesty, this is a blessing in disguise for RCB. If RCB do not have Hazlewood, and they are concerned about Salt's form, they can play both Salt and Bethell. And when Hazlewood returns, you will have a clearer picture," Ashwin said.

"I don't think Venkatesh Iyer will play at the start. Brother, look at their foreign players. Salt, David, Shepherd, and Bethell. My god, that is a serious top four overseas combination that you can get. Probably one of the best in the tournament," he concluded.