The former India offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin has described Royal Challengers Bangalore’s acquisition New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy as an “absolute steal” ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. Ashwin’s comments have led to debate regarding the auction strategy of RCB specifically their ability to acquire an international star pacer for a reasonable price. The remarks were made in the wake of Duffy’s recent international performances cricket, which have increased his stature across different the different formats.
Jacob Duffy’s Rise in International Cricket
Duffy’s emergence as a star is built through a series of impressive appearances in the national team of New Zealand during the 2025 international season. Duffy, a right-arm seamer, played a significant role in the New Zealand match against West Indies, where he scored a match-winning five wicket haul in the second Test of the series at Mount Maunganui. The five-wicket haul of 42 smashed the West Indies middle order and assured New Zealand sealed a comprehensive win in the series 2-0.
Beyond the Test format, Duffy has also been regular in limited-overs formats. The ability of his to create bounce as well as swing the ball and keep control in the final moments has earned him the status of a regular player for T20 internationals. These performances have helped position the player as one of New Zealand’s most reliable speed options in the last year.
Social Media Reactions of Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin pointed out Duffy’s skills in an article on the social media platform X and acknowledged the pacer’s impressive wicket-taking figures as well as overall effectiveness. Ashwin highlighted Duffy’s consistent performance with the fastest format and noted that his recent performance put him as one of the most efficient fast bowlers currently playing T20 cricket.
Ashwin’s endorsement is important, due to his status as one of cricket’s best analysts. His analysis was not just on the raw numbers of Duffy, but also on his suitability to Indian conditions and the demands that are part of the IPL.
RCB Secure Duffy at the Mini-Auction
Royal Challengers Bangalore signed Jacob Duffy at Jacob Duffy’s signing at the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi. The franchise bought Jacob Duffy, a New Zealand pacer at his base cost which was INR 2 crore, which was his first time playing for the IPL. The deal is now considered to be a smart move in terms of cost especially in light of Duffy’s recent international performances and his growing knowledge.
For RCB this signing reflects the long-running emphasis placed on enhancing their pace bowling unit. The team has depended upon a mixture between domestic and international fast bowlers and the addition of Duffy is another skilled option that can be used across multiple phases of the T20 innings.
Strengthening the Bowling Unit Ahead of Title Defence
RCB begin IPL 2026 as champions of the IPL after securing their first IPL title last season. After that win The management of the franchise has focused on ensuring equilibrium within the squad, instead of overhauling the team’s base. The inclusion of Duffy is in line with this strategy giving flexibility and depth without affecting the current structure.
Duffy should be a part into a bowling squad that blends experience and new talent. The ability of Duffy to bowl with the brand new ball and perform variations in the final stages provides the team with an array of tactical options, especially when playing on batting surfaces where controlling the flow of runs is crucial.
Virat Kohli and the Integration of New Signings
Virat Kohli remains the key persona in the RCB team in both his role as an experienced batter as well as an exemplary leader in the team dressing room. The presence of veteran international players in the same team as Kohli will facilitate the integration of new players like Duffy. The management of RCB has always stressed the importance of integrating foreign players into the team’s culture, especially for those unfamiliar with being part of the IPL environment.
For Duffy to be in the same locker room with experienced players and working under the direction of a stable group of leaders can play a part in speeding his acclimation to the competitive nature of the league.
Auction Strategy Under the Spotlight
The Ashwin’s “absolute steal” remark has been a catalyst for the RCB’s overall auction strategy. Analysts have observed that the team has been cautious in its purchases, focusing on players with specific skills instead of seeking marquee names at high costs. This strategy has allowed RCB to increase the depth of its squad and still have the flexibility of its finances.
The purchase of Duffy at a base price is cited in this regard as an instance of this strategy, particularly to the rising costs commonly associated with fast bowlers from overseas within the IPL auction market.
Expectations Surrounding Duffy’s IPL Debut
As IPL 2026 gets closer, the expectations surrounding Jacob Duffy’s debut season the league are growing. The observers will be watching closely how his international performances translate to franchise cricket in which traveling schedules, back-toback matches and the varying weather conditions present specific issues.
The RCB coaching team will be expected to handle Duffy’s workload with care, making sure that he’s efficient throughout the event. His performance during the initial phases of the season may be a factor in determining the bowling teams of RCB in the future.
Focus on RCB’s Campaign Preparation
As preparations are underway, Royal Challengers Bangalore are positioning themselves for a strong run. The focus is on team consistency, depth and the tactical clarity. The announcement by Jacob Duffy, backed by Ravichandran Ashwin’s endorsement adds another dimension of excitement to the RCB’s preparations for IPL 2026.
As the league is getting closer, focus will be on how the champions will make use of their new resources Duffy’s position is likely to be among the most talked about topics during the first few weeks in the new season.
