IPL 2026 Auction: RCB coach ecstatic after acquiring Venkatesh Iyer, Reveals 'We've battled with KKR.....'

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Venkatesh Iyer, the Indian all-rounder, was signed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for Rs 7 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi.​

Bidding started at Rs 2 crore with interest from Lucknow Super Giants, Gujarat Titans, and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), his former team. RCB won after an intense battle, outbidding KKR who pushed to Rs 6.8 crore before withdrawing.

The 31-year-old Madhya Pradesh cricketer offers left-handed top-order batting, medium-pace bowling, and big-match temperament, strengthening RCB's Indian core as defending champions. Previously retained by KKR at Rs 23.75 crore for IPL 2025, this marks a 70% pay cut. RCB hailed him as a "left-hand fire" performer who shifts momentum quickly, adding versatility and explosive power to their squad.

Interestingly, RCB pushed for Iyer in the IPL 2025 mega auction as well, but the Knight Riders bought the southpaw for Rs 23.75 crore at that time.

"It's two years running we've battled KKR for Venky-we both rate him highly, so it's great to have him on board. We met him, chatted, and loved his competitive spirit, smarts, and leadership qualities for the dressing room and field. Looking forward to working with him," Flower said.

Apart from Venkatesh Iyer, RCB also bought New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy as well at his base price of Rs 2 crore.