RCB Keep an Eye on Rising J&K Pacer Adil Ayub Tunda Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will head into the IPL 2026 Auction with a largely settled squad and a remaining purse of INR 16.40 crore. With only a few gaps left to fill, the franchise is expected to make targeted moves when the auction takes place on December 16. 

One such potential addition is young Jammu & Kashmir pacer Adil Ayub Tunda, who has been invited by the franchise for a trial—an opportunity that could translate into an auction-day bid if he manages to impress the coaching staff.

While fellow J&K pacer Auqib Nabi recently earned a trial with Mumbai Indians following strong domestic performances, RCB’s interest in the relatively lesser-known Tunda highlights the franchise’s intent to scout raw and high-upside talent. For Tunda, the opportunity is the latest milestone in a journey shaped by perseverance and steady growth.

Coming from a region where cricketing infrastructure remains limited, Adil’s early years were marked by challenges. Introduced to the sport by his father, a former cricketer, he eventually joined a local academy, where his skills began to flourish. His selection for a state U19 tournament proved to be his breakthrough, opening doors to domestic competitions and even franchise-level leagues. These experiences have steadily shaped him into a promising fast-bowling prospect.

Tunda’s T20 numbers reinforce the excitement surrounding him. The 23-year-old right-arm quick was the leading wicket-taker in last year’s Puducherry Premier League, claiming 21 wickets in 12 innings at an impressive average of 14.66 and an economy of 7. He continued his strong form in the latest edition, finishing with 14 wickets in 11 matches, including a four-wicket haul. His Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy debut for Jammu & Kashmir last season saw him feature in five games, picking up two wickets while gaining valuable experience at a higher level.

Standing tall at 6ft 5in, Tunda possesses the ability to hit hard lengths and extract natural bounce—qualities crucial for fast bowlers operating in subcontinental conditions. His versatility allows him to bowl both with the new ball and at the death, and his comfort with yorkers adds further value in a league where death-over specialists are always in demand.

While RCB have taken the lead by inviting him for trials, other franchises struggling with their Indian pace options—such as Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals—may also keep him on their radar during the IPL 2026 Auction. If RCB decide to bring him onboard, Tunda would join an exciting young fast-bowling group alongside Abhinandan Singh, Rasikh Salam Dar and Yash Dayal, strengthening the champions’ depth heading into the new season.