Former NZ cricketer Simon Doull advises RCB to retain Venkatesh Iyer as opener alongside Virat Kohli for IPL 2026 Qualifier 1, citing Phil Salt's potential lack of match fitness after an injury layoff. Doull emphasizes form over reputation in knockout games.
Virat Kohli achieved a new milestone in men's T20 cricket, becoming the batter involved in the most 50+ partnerships with 211. He surpassed Alex Hales during an IPL 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Venkatesh Iyer, the 31-year-old all-rounder, has featured in just one game for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their first six matches this season after being picked up for Rs 7 crore at the mini-auction — significantly less than his previous KKR price. Despite being unused to sitting out, Iyer has embraced his role, stating he places team success above个人 glory and understands the dynamics of a defending champion side. He credits coaching staff including Mo Bobat, Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik for providing clarity on his role.
