Archive · 26 Dec 2025
RCB's Strategy: Iyer May Not Start
Anil Kumble, a former cricketer, talked about Venkatesh Iyer, a new player for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Kumble said that Iyer won't play in the starting team at the beginning of the 2026 IPL season.
He explained that RCB wants to keep their winning team together and not make changes that could create doubt.
Kumble also mentioned that RCB is happy to have Iyer in their squad because they didn't expect to get him.
He talked about other new players RCB added, like Jacob Duffy and Mangesh Yadav, who will be backups for other players.
Sanjay Bangar, another expert, said Iyer has been consistent and could be included in the team later.
Andy Flower, the coach, was happy to have Iyer because of his leadership qualities.
RCB won their first IPL title this year, so they want to keep their team strong for the next season.
Venkatesh Iyer was bought by RCB for Rs 7 crore but may not be in the starting XI initially.
RCB aims to maintain their winning team's stability and avoid creating doubt by not immediately including Iyer.
RCB secured other players like Jacob Duffy and Mangesh Yadav as backups for key positions.
Sanjay Bangar noted Iyer's consistency and potential to be integrated into the playing XI as needed.
Andy Flower expressed happiness at acquiring Iyer for his leadership qualities and strategic fit.
- Who
- Anil Kumble, Sanjay Bangar, and Andy Flower discuss Venkatesh Iyer's role in RCB for IPL 2026.
- What
- Kumble states that Iyer will not be in the starting XI initially, while Bangar and Flower highlight his potential and leadership qualities.
- When
- The discussion took place on December 26, 2025, regarding the IPL 2026 season and the recent auction on December 16, 2025.
- Where
- The discussion was on JioHotstar, and the auction took place in Abu Dhabi.
- Why
- To provide insights into RCB's team strategy and the role of Venkatesh Iyer in the upcoming IPL season.
RCB's Stability Focus
Iyer's Potential
Team Composition
RCB's Stability Focus
RCB aims to maintain their winning team's stability and avoid creating doubt by not immediately including Iyer in the starting XI.
Iyer's Potential
Iyer's consistent performance and leadership qualities make him a valuable addition who could be integrated into the playing XI as needed.
- Player
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Team
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Former Captain
- Anil Kumble
- Key Additions
- Jacob Duffy, Mangesh Yadav, Jordan Cox
- IPL 2026
- Upcoming Season
- Auction Date
- December 16, 2025
- RCB's IPL Title
- First Title in 2025
- Auction Platform
- JioHotstar
