Rajasthan Royals will enter IPL 2026 with a familiar hunger and a fresh identity. The 2008 champions haven’t lifted the trophy since that magical first season, but this time, the composition of the team suggests they are building something bold, balanced and modern.
With Sanju Samson no longer a part of the setup and several smart moves being made ahead of the season, Rajasthan have reshaped their core. The result is a team that blends explosive youth, proven international quality and serious bowling firepower.
New look Rajasthan Royals team for IPL 2026
The biggest topic of discussion is structural change. Rajasthan have a strong top-order, a flexible middle-order, real all-round depth and a diverse pace-spin attack. Even though Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran were traded to CSK, their impact in AI-based team selection is still big, underscoring how valuable multi-skilled players are in T20 cricket.
Interestingly, both Google Gemini and ChatGPT were tasked with picking Rajasthan’s best possible playing XI for IPL 2026. Although there were some tactical differences, the overlap between the two tells a clear story about the core strength of Rajasthan.
The opening batsmen set the tone
Both the AI models unanimously selected Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi as the opening batsmen. Jaiswal is already a proven IPL match-winner, while Suryavanshi represents the fearless new generation. Together, they provide left-right combinations, powerplay dominance and long-term consistency.
midrange full of intent
Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer form the engine room of this lineup. Parag’s development as a reliable middle-order batsman has been one of Rajasthan’s biggest positives in recent seasons. Jurel adds calmness and adaptability, while Hetmyer remains the designated finisher, capable of turning games around in a matter of a few overs.
All-rounders bring balance and control
In ChatGPT’s playing eleven, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran have found place as 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 lower down the order adds vital balance.
While Gemini went a step further and appointed Jadeja as captain due to his vast experience, ChatGPT focused more on bowling depth, reflecting two different but valid tactical approaches.
Bowling attack designed for all conditions
This is where ChatGPT’s XI stands out. The inclusion of three frontline fast bowlers Joffra Archer, Tushar Deshpande and Nandre Berger gives Rajasthan raw pace, bounce and control over the death overs. If Archer is fit, he will remain one of the most dangerous bowlers in the league.
Ravi Bishnoi complements the fast bowling unit perfectly. His ability to attack in the middle overs and take wickets on flat pitches makes him indispensable in the IPL format.
Rajasthan’s playing eleven selected by ChatGPT
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ryan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Joffra Archer, Ravi Bishwai, Tushar Deshpande, Nandre Berger.
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