Venkatesh Iyer makes honest admission on RCB bench role after PBKS heroics: 'I'd lie if I said that I wasn't frustrated'

Against PBKS, Venkatesh Iyer smacked 73* off 40 balls, packed with eight fours and four sixes, also striking at 182.50.

Updated on: May 18, 2026, 06:18:58 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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It was only Venkatesh Iyer's third innings in IPL 2026 in Dharamshala on Sunday, but the Royal Challengers Bengaluru star made it look like he had been a regular mainstay this season. Iyer's unbeaten 40-ball 73* was pivotal as RCB defeated PBKS to become the first team to qualify for the playoffs this season. Iyer has hardly featured for RCB this season, but showed that patience reaps benefits, playing a key role in their win vs PBKS.

Venkatesh Iyer was key for RCB in their win against PBKS. (PTI)

Speaking after the match, Iyer was asked about having to wait for opportunities this season due to RCB's strong batting depth, and the India player was boldly honest.

Also Read: Shreyas Iyer left crestfallen as powerplay lapses cost Punjab Kings vs RCB: ‘Really disappointed'

“I’d lie if I said that I was not frustrated or not wanting to play. I was really wanting to go out there and play because for players like us, it’s the opportunity to play in the IPL. We want to play, we want to do well. But I do understand, I’ve been here long enough to understand that this is a champion team and to tinker with the combination is not always right. But I always tried to create an impact on the coaching staff to make me play and I will deliver. I’m really happy that I got my opportunity,” he said.

In three innings this season, Iyer has scored 114 runs, and his knock against PBKS is his highest. He arrived in a crucial moment of the first innings, after Devdutt Padikkal's (45) in the tenth over. Iyer built a strong partnership with Virat Kohli (58) and Tim David (28), giving RCB a strong finish. Iyer smacked 73* off 40 balls, packed with eight fours and four sixes, also striking at 182.50. RCB posted 222/4 in 20 overs, setting a target of 223 runs.

Chasing 223 runs, PBKS crumbled early, losing openers Priyansh Arya (0) and Prabhsimran Singh (2). Meanwhile, skipper Shreyas Iyer could manage only one run in three balls. Shashank Singh (56) and Marcus Stoinis (37) tried to stage a comeback, but failed, as PBKS were restricted to 199/8 in 20 overs.

Hailing Kohli for their partnership, Iyer added after the match, “But I was lucky to be batting alongside Virat Kohli. Obviously the mindset shift that he’s able to communicate to you. I think with all the legends of the game, one thing that stands out is the communication, that’s the key. If you’re able to communicate well with your partner because it’s two people out there scoring runs together for the team, so that was the key.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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