Royal Challengers Bengaluru star Virat Kohli was spotted in an intense conversation with all-rounder Venkatesh Iyerduring the team’s pre-season camp ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League. The franchise has kicked off its preparations at its home venue, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Venkatesh’s five-year association with Kolkata Knight Riders came to an end after he was released before the IPL 2026 mini-auction. RCB secured the 31-year-old for ₹7 crore following a fierce bidding battle with his former team.
A video that surfaced on social media captured Kohli engaged in a discussion with Venkatesh. Watch the video here:
Virat Kohli had a chat with Venkatesh Iyer before the Practice Match. pic.twitter.com/HWepJex0Qg
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) March 21, 2026
Venkatesh Iyer endured a below-par campaign with Kolkata Knight Riders last season, managing only 142 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 139.21. Overall, the left-hander has accumulated 1468 runs from 56 innings at a strike rate of 137.32.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their maiden Indian Premier League title by lifting the 2025 trophy, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final. Virat Kohli emerged as the team’s leading run-scorer, piling up 657 runs in 15 innings at an impressive strike rate of 144.71.
Alongside Venkatesh, RCB made several key additions at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, including New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy (₹2 crore), uncapped Indian bowling all-rounder Mangesh Yadav (₹5.2 crore), and England wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox (₹75 lakh).
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Set To Face Sunrisers Hyderabad In IPL 2026 Opener
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, March 28. Led by Rajat Patidar, the side is set to feature in four matches during the opening phase of the tournament.
Bengaluru will next host Chennai Super Kings on April 5 before heading on the road for two fixtures. They will face Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on April 10, followed by a contest against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on April 12.
It is important to note that only the schedule for the initial phase has been released so far, with the remaining fixtures expected to be announced soon.
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