Venkatesh Iyer's Role in RCB: Insights from Experts

Former cricketers Anil Kumble and Sanjay Bangar share their insights on Venkatesh Iyer's potential role in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lineup. Kumble suggests that Iyer may not start in the playing eleven to maintain team stability, while Bangar highlights Iyer's consistent performance and confidence. The article also covers the competitive bidding process for Iyer during the IPL auction and his past performance statistics. Additionally, it discusses RCB's other strategic acquisitions to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 26, 2025, 15:42 IST

Expert Insights on Iyer's Position

Anil Kumble, the former Indian cricketer, believes that all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer may not secure a spot in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) starting lineup initially. Kumble suggests that the defending champions aim to maintain stability in their winning team and avoid any uncertainties. RCB acquired Iyer for Rs 7 crores during the IPL mini auction, following a mixed season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) where he was valued at 23.75 crore rupees.

Kumble's Analysis

During the 'TATA IPL Auction Review' on JioStar, Kumble elaborated on the team's strategy, stating, "Venkatesh Iyer will likely not be in the playing eleven at the start. You want to avoid creating doubt in a winning team. This is likely why they refrained from pursuing a player like Ravi Bishnoi, ensuring that Suyash Sharma feels secure without the pressure of a senior spinner. The team has wisely retained its core players while having backups ready for any unforeseen circumstances."

Bangar's Take on Iyer

Sanjay Bangar, another former Indian all-rounder and JioStar expert, noted that Iyer has garnered significant attention since last season. He remarked, "Iyer has shown consistency and confidence. With Dinesh Karthik as the batting coach and Malolan Rangarajan scouting for talent, he presents a solid option. However, whether he will be in the starting eleven is uncertain, as the team is well-settled. They have successfully integrated left-handers into the lineup, similar to how Krunal Pandya was utilized last season. Suyash Sharma had a commendable season, which alleviated the need for a top spinner."

The Bidding Process for Iyer

Iyer's auction began with a base price of Rs 2 crore. The Lucknow Super Giants were the first to bid, followed by the Gujarat Titans. The bidding intensified when KKR, Iyer's previous team, entered the fray. Ultimately, RCB secured the all-rounder after a competitive bidding process.

Iyer's IPL Statistics

In his IPL career, Iyer has accumulated 1,468 runs at an average of 29.12, boasting a strike rate exceeding 137, including one century and twelve fifties across 56 innings. Last season, KKR brought him back for Rs 23.75 crores, but he struggled, managing only 142 runs in seven innings with an average above 20 and a strike rate close to 140.

RCB's Additional Auction Acquisitions

RCB has bolstered its squad by signing left-arm pacer Mangesh Yadav for Rs 5.2 crore, marking him as the fourth-highest uncapped Indian purchase of the day. The franchise also welcomed hard-hitting English wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox. Additionally, RCB invested in youth by acquiring 18-year-old Satvik Deswal for Rs 30 lakh, along with U19 talents Vihaan Malhotra and Kanishk Chauhan at the base price, and New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy for Rs 2 crore.