Venkatesh Iyer Reveals Why He Wanted to Play Under Virat Kohli
The Legacy of Virat Kohli as RCB Skipper
The history of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League is inextricably linked to the tenure of Virat Kohli. When the franchise made the bold decision to appoint the young batting prodigy as their permanent skipper in 2013, it marked the beginning of a transformative era. Over the next nine years, Kohli did not just captain the side; he redefined the team’s identity, leading them to the 2016 final and fostering a culture of intensity and professional growth.
While the coveted IPL trophy remained elusive during his reign, Kohli’s impact extended far beyond silverware. He was instrumental in developing a generation of players, serving as both a leader and a mentor. His decision to step down in 2022 to focus on his role as a pure batter may have signaled the end of an era, but his influence within the dressing room remains as potent as ever.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Admiration for Kohli
The recent acquisition of Venkatesh Iyer by RCB for a staggering 7 crore rupees was a significant investment for the franchise. The Madhya Pradesh batter, known for his dynamic stroke play, has become an integral part of the squad. In a recent interview, when asked which captain he would have most loved to play under, Iyer provided an answer that surprised many—eschewing serial trophy winners like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma in favor of Virat Kohli.
Iyer’s choice speaks volumes about the aura Kohli commands among his peers. While Iyer credited Eoin Morgan as the best captain he has played under during his time with the Kolkata Knight Riders, his deep-seated desire to share the field under Kohli’s leadership underscores the legendary status the former RCB skipper holds among current cricketers.
A Partnership That Defined Success
The synergy between Kohli and Iyer was on full display during the pivotal IPL 2026 clash against the Punjab Kings. With Rajat Patidar sidelined due to injury, the opportunity arrived for Iyer to step into the main XI. He did not disappoint. The partnership between the two proved to be the cornerstone of RCB’s performance, with Kohli’s tactical guidance and experience complementing Iyer’s aggressive batting style.
Following the victory, which secured RCB’s spot in the playoffs, Iyer was effusive in his praise for his partner. He noted, “I was lucky that Virat Kohli was batting out there with me. He gave me a few key pointers and provided valuable advice during the batting; he kept helping me throughout the innings.” This mentorship was not just theoretical; it translated into a match-winning total.
Justifying the Price Tag
Despite the high expectations associated with his 7 crore price tag, Iyer faced significant time on the bench as the team management favored Devdutt Padikkal. However, Iyer’s patience and professional approach ensured he was ready when his moment came. His performance against the Punjab Kings was the perfect response to his critics.
On a pitch conducive to batting, Iyer played a masterclass, smashing 73* off just 40 balls at an impressive strike rate of 182. His contribution was vital in propelling RCB to a formidable total of 222. The 23-run victory not only showcased his individual brilliance but also solidified his value to the team as they marched into the playoffs. It is clear that under the guidance of leaders like Kohli, players like Iyer are finding the platform they need to excel on the biggest stage of T20 cricket.
