The deadline for submitting the IPL 2026 retention list is November 15, and two franchises — Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) — are facing challenging decisions. Their players Vipraaj Nigam and Yash Dayal have recently been named in separate rape-related FIRs, raising questions about whether the teams will retain them.

What will Delhi Capitals do about Vipraaj Nigam?
Vipraaj Nigam, a Delhi Capitals all-rounder purchased for ₹50 lakh in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, played 14 matches last season, scoring 142 runs and taking 11 wickets. He was considered a promising utility player for the franchise.

However, ahead of the 2026 retention process, a female cricketer from Uttar Pradesh has filed an FIR in Noida, accusing Vipraaj Nigam of rape and assault under the pretext of marriage. Nigam has also filed a counter-complaint at the Barabanki police station, alleging threats and blackmail. The matter is currently under investigation.

RCB faces a similar dilemma with Yash Dayal
Yash Dayal — a key left-arm pacer for RCB — has also been in the news for similar allegations. Before Vipraaj’s case surfaced, Dayal was accused of raping a minor girl after allegedly promising marriage. Following this FIR, he was barred from participating in the UPT20 League.

RCB retained Yash Dayal last season for ₹5 crore, and he has been with the franchise since 2024. He played a significant role in RCB’s previous campaign, taking 13 wickets in 15 matches, and is valued for his death-over bowling. But with the allegations still under legal scrutiny, it remains uncertain whether RCB will retain him for IPL 2026.

Franchises yet to comment
Both Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore are expected to make their official retention decisions by the November 15 deadline. As of now, neither franchise has publicly confirmed whether these players will be retained or released.