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Dinesh Karthik (Source:X)
In a recent development, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been acquired by a powerful consortium for a staggering USD 1.78 billion before IPL 2026. The consortium is led by the Aditya Birla Group, headed by Kumar Mangalam Birla, along with The Times of India Group.
It also includes global investors such as David Blitzer through Bolt Ventures and the private equity giant Blackstone.
It is also important to mention that Aryaman Vikram Birla will take over as chairman, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as vice-chairman.
This marks a significant shift from the previous owners, United Spirits Limited, who had managed the franchise since its inception in 2008.
"Over the past two decades, the IPL has morphed to become a global sporting powerhouse that has changed the face of Indian cricket, creating enormous value for India. RCB, as one of the most compelling franchises in modern sport, offers the Aditya Birla Group a distinctive platform to extend its legacy of institution-building into the arena of global sport. We are delighted to become custodians of this asset and committed to further building this extraordinary legacy," Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, said in a statement.
Will RCB's coaching staff change after Change In Ownership?
One of the biggest questions following the ownership change was whether the new management would overhaul the coaching and support staff. However, the answer appears clear: continuity will be maintained.
Also Read: How Much Will BCCI Earn From RCB And RR's Sale Before IPL 2026?
RCB's entire backroom setup is expected to remain unchanged for IPL 2026. This includes director of cricket Mo Bobat, head coach Andy Flower, and batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik.
Other key members, such as bowling coach Omkar Salvi and fielding expert Malolan Rangarajan, are also set to continue.
Another factor behind retaining the coaching staff is the consortium's involvement in global cricket. The new owners also control London Spirit in England’s The Hundred competition. This creates a multi-team ownership model the allows knowledge, strategies, and talent to be shared across teams.
RCB's coaching staff for IPL 2026
- Director of Cricket: Mo Bobat
- Head Coach – Andy Flower
- Batting Coach and Mentor – Dinesh Karthik
- Bowling Coach – Omkar Salvi
- Head of Scouting and Fielding Coach – Malolan Rangarajan
- Assistant Coach and Fielding Lead – Richard Halsall
- Head Strength & Conditioning Coach – Basu Shanker
- Vice President & Head of RCB: Rajesh Menon
RCB to start title defence against SRH
With ownership clarity now in place, RCB can shift its full attention to the field. The team will enter IPL 2026 as defending champions after winning their first title under captain Rajat Patidar, defeating the Punjab Kings in the 2025 final.
They will begin their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.
The schedule also includes a home clash against Chennai Super Kings, followed by away matches in Guwahati and Mumbai against Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians.
Also Read: Jonny Bairstow Or Jake-Fraser McGurk? Who Leads Ben Duckett's Replacement Race For Delhi Capitals?
