Ahead of the soon-to-begin 2026 season of the Indian Premier League, respected former Indian cricketer has shared a key insight about none other than Venkatesh Iyer, who happens to be among the most noted performers in the eminent franchise based Competition. So the key question is- what do we fans have to know about Iyer that we may not know:
Former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar has shared his probable playing XI for Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, suggesting that Venkatesh Iyer may not find a place in the team’s first-choice lineup. RCB enter the new season as defending champions after winning their maiden IPL title last year. The Bengaluru-based side defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in a closely contested final to lift the trophy. Iyer was one of the eight players bought by RCB during the IPL 2026 auction, adding further strength to their squad. However, Bangar believes the team already has strong options in the batting order, which could make it difficult for Iyer to break into the starting XI. Speaking during a discussion on Star Sports, Bangar was asked to pick RCB’s best possible playing XI and whether Iyer would be included. The former India batting coach was clear in his response.
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“Just because a franchise spends a lot of money on a player does not guarantee him a place in the playing XI,” Bangar said.
“There is strong competition for spots. Devdutt Padikkal has played some crucial knocks and has already proven his value to the team.”
Bangar added that team balance and current form would ultimately decide the final lineup rather than auction price.
