Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared his list of players whom the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), should retain and release ahead of the IPL 2027 auction. With the auction scheduled to take place on December 16, 2026, all ten teams will have to submit their retentions by November 15.

Chopra has backed several players who played an important role in RCB's successful IPL 2026 campaign. He has named Devdutt Padikkal, Jacob Bethell, Venkatesh Iyer, Rasikh Salam Dar, and Suyash Sharma as players worth retaining.

However, he feels that the franchise should consider releasing all-rounder Romario Shepherd because of his inconsistent performances. Earlier, Afghanistan clinch maiden Hong Kong Sixes title with four-wicket win over Australia.

Aakash Chopra picks Devdutt Padikkal and Jacob Bethell as certain RCB retention

Aakash Chopra believes that Devdutt Padikkal should be one of the first players retained by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The left-handed batter enjoyed an excellent IPL 2026 season and played an important role in the teams’ back-to-back title triumphs.

Padikkal scored 464 runs in 15 innings at an impressive average of 33.14 and a strike rate of 168.72 in the last season. His ability to score aggressively, provide strong starts, and his stunning form make him an important player for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

England's young batting star Jacob Bethell is another player whom Chopra wants RCB to retain for IPL 2027. Bethell has shown his quality with the bat and has the potential to become an important part of the team's future plans. Chopra believes RCB should continue backing the England batter.

Aakash Chopra wants RCB to retain Venkatesh Iyer, but suggests releasing Romario Shepherd

Chopra also wants RCB to retain Venkatesh Iyer, who made good use of his limited opportunities in IPL 2026. The left-handed batter scored 209 runs in just six innings at an outstanding average of 52.25 and a strike rate of 186.60.

These numbers show how effective Iyer was whenever he got the opportunity to bat. He can also bowl, making him a valuable option, and Chopra feels RCB should continue trusting him. Amid this, India create history, become first team to smash 400 sixes in a calendar year.

However, the cricket pandit warned the RCB against retaining the West Indies hard-hitter Romario Shepherd ahead of the IPL 2027 mini auction. Chopra feels the defending champions should release the West Indies all-rounder because of his inconsistent performances.

Aakash Chopra warns RCB against releasing Rasikh Salam Dar

Chopra has strongly backed uncapped Indian fast bowler Rasikh Salam Dar for another season. The young pacer was one of RCB's key performers in IPL 2026. Rasikh picked up 19 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 21.31 and an economy rate of 9.45.

He also scalped three wickets in the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments makes him a valuable asset, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru should not take the risk of releasing him.

Chopra says Suyash Sharma should continue with RCB

Young spinner Suyash Sharma is the final name on Chopra's retention list. The leg-spinner picked up nine wickets in 12 matches during IPL 2026.

Chopra believes that RCB should continue investing in the young spinner, who can provide important breakthroughs and strengthen their bowling attack in the coming seasons.

Let’s start this with the defending champions #RCB. Would you release anyone? #aakashvani #cricket #ipl #aakashchopra https://t.co/hzqA2U7d8T

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) November 1, 2026