Rajasthan Royals will walk into IPL 2026 with a familiar hunger and a refreshed identity. The 2008 champions haven’t lifted the trophy since that magical first season, but this time around, the squad composition suggests they’re building something bold, balanced, and modern.
With Sanju Samson no longer part of the setup and several smart moves made ahead of the season, Rajasthan have reshaped their core. The result is a squad that blends explosive youth, proven international quality, and serious bowling firepower.
A new-look Rajasthan Royals squad for IPL 2026
The biggest talking point is the structural shift. Rajasthan boast a strong top order, flexible middle, genuine all-round depth, and a varied pace-spin attack. Even though Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran were traded to CSK, their influence still looms large in AI-based team selections, underlining just how valuable multi-skill players are in T20 cricket.
Interestingly, both Google Gemini and ChatGPT were tasked with selecting Rajasthan’s best possible playing XI for IPL 2026. While there were some tactical differences, the overlap between the two tells a clear story about Rajasthan’s core strength.
Openers set the tone
Both AI models unanimously picked Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi as openers. Jaiswal is already a proven IPL match-winner, while Suryavanshi represents the fearless new generation. Together, they offer a left-right combination, powerplay dominance, and long-term continuity.
Middle order packed with intent
Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Shimron Hetmyer form the engine room of this lineup. Parag’s evolution into a reliable middle-order batter has been one of Rajasthan’s biggest positives in recent seasons. Jurel adds calmness and adaptability, while Hetmyer remains the designated finisher, capable of flipping games in a matter of overs.
All-rounders bring balance and control
In ChatGPT’s playing XI, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran slot in as the dual all-rounders. Jadeja’s experience, game awareness, and left-arm spin make him a natural leader on the field, while Curran’s ability to swing the new ball and bat with freedom down the order adds crucial balance.
While Gemini went a step further by even naming Jadeja as captain due to his vast experience, ChatGPT focused more on bowling depth, reflecting two different but valid tactical approaches.
Bowling attack built for all conditions
This is where ChatGPT’s XI stands out. The inclusion of three frontline fast bowlers Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, and Nandre Burger gives Rajasthan raw pace, bounce, and death-overs control. Archer, if fit, remains one of the most feared bowlers in the league.
Ravi Bishnoi complements the pace unit perfectly. His ability to attack in the middle overs and pick wickets on flat pitches makes him indispensable in the IPL format.
Rajasthan’s Playing XI selected by ChatGPT
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Jofra Archer, Ravi Bishwai, Tushar Deshpande, Nandre Burger.