- KR Bharat
- 2025-12-26
Former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble has shared his views on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s team balance ahead of IPL 2026, suggesting that high-priced all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer could begin the season on the bench.
Venkatesh Iyer was among the big buys at the IPL 2026 mega auction, with RCB securing the former Kolkata Knight Riders star for ₹5.75 crore. However, Kumble believes that breaking into RCB’s playing XI may not be easy for the left-hander during the early matches.
Speaking to a sports channel, Kumble said RCB’s top order is already well settled, making it difficult for the team management to find the right slot for Venkatesh Iyer. “There is no doubt that Venkatesh Iyer is a quality player. But when you look at RCB’s batting line-up, with Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and overseas players, the top order looks packed. How RCB uses their four overseas slots will largely decide his chances,” Kumble explained.
He added that Venkatesh Iyer may have to wait for his opportunity at the start of the tournament. “My feeling is that he could be limited to the bench in the initial phase of the competition,” Kumble said.
Venkatesh Iyer generally excels as an opener or a No.3 batter, but competition for those roles at RCB is intense. Virat Kohli is a certain starter at the top, while explosive overseas openers like Phil Salt further reduce opportunities for Indian batters. Additionally, RCB already have other all-round options, which could limit Iyer’s chances as a bowling all-rounder.
The presence of the Impact Player rule does offer RCB some flexibility, allowing them to use Venkatesh Iyer as a specialist batter. However, analysts believe securing a place in the top six will still be a tough challenge.
Venkatesh Iyer played a key role in KKR’s title-winning campaign in the past and will be keen to make an impact at the Bengaluru pitches with his power-hitting. Whether he can overturn Kumble’s assessment and force his way into RCB’s playing XI remains to be seen.
