RCB Won Back-to-Back IPL Titles, But These 3 Players Could Still Be Shown the Exit Door Before IPL 2027…

Winning trophies often masks weaknesses, but the most successful franchises know that staying at the top requires constant evolution.

After securing back-to-back Indian Premier League (IPL) titles in 2025 and 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have established themselves as the team to beat. The franchise has finally ended its long wait for silverware and built a squad capable of delivering sustained success.

However, with IPL 2027 still months away, RCB’s management is expected to review every position carefully. While the core of the championship-winning squad is likely to remain intact, a few players could face uncertain futures due to underwhelming performances.

Here are three players who may find themselves on the release list ahead of the next season.

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1. Jitesh Sharma

When Jitesh Sharma joined RCB, expectations were sky-high.

The franchise invested heavily in the wicketkeeper-batter, spending ₹11 crore to secure his services. However, the move did not deliver the desired results during IPL 2026.

Jitesh struggled throughout the season, scoring just 116 runs in 16 matches, with a highest score of only 23. For a player expected to provide explosive finishing ability and stability in the middle order, those numbers fell well below expectations.

Given the significant investment and the availability of emerging wicketkeeping options in the market, RCB could consider moving on and reallocating resources elsewhere.

2. Romario Shepherd

West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd was part of both title-winning campaigns, but his individual contributions remained limited.

In IPL 2026, Shepherd claimed seven wickets in 15 matches and scored just 83 runs. While he offered squad depth and versatility, he struggled to produce match-winning performances consistently.

For a player occupying an overseas slot, expectations are naturally higher. RCB may decide that a more impactful overseas all-rounder could strengthen the squad further heading into IPL 2027.

Although Shepherd remains a valuable T20 cricketer, his position in the Bengaluru setup appears far from guaranteed.

3. Suyash Sharma

Young leg-spinner Suyash Sharma entered the season with hopes of becoming a key part of RCB’s bowling attack. However, another inconsistent campaign has placed his future under scrutiny.

The spinner picked up nine wickets in IPL 2026, a marginal improvement from the eight wickets he managed in the previous season. More concerning for the team management was his economy rate, which remained above nine runs per over.

In a format where spinners are often expected to control the middle overs and create pressure, Suyash found it difficult to consistently deliver breakthroughs or contain opposition batters.

With several promising spin options emerging across domestic cricket, RCB may explore alternative choices before the next edition.

Champions Still Looking to Improve

Despite winning consecutive IPL trophies, RCB’s success is unlikely to stop them from making bold decisions.

History has shown that championship teams often refresh their squads to maintain momentum and stay ahead of rivals. Releasing underperforming players can create opportunities to strengthen weaker areas and prepare for future challenges.

While no official decisions have been announced, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd, and Suyash Sharma could be among the names closely evaluated by the franchise in the lead-up to IPL 2027.

As Bengaluru aim for an unprecedented third consecutive title, every squad decision will carry extra significance.