Kumble: Venkatesh Iyer May Not Start for RCB in IPL 2026

Former India captain Anil Kumble believes new recruit Venkatesh Iyer might not feature in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) initial playing XI for IPL 2026. Kumble cited the importance of maintaining a settled, winning team following RCB's acquisition of Iyer for ₹7 crore in the recent mini-auction.

• Anil Kumble commented on Venkatesh Iyer's likely initial exclusion from RCB's XI.
• RCB acquired Venkatesh Iyer for ₹7 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
• Kumble emphasized maintaining stability in RCB's defending champion squad.
• Iyer was released by KKR after a modest IPL 2025 season.
• Other experts like Sanjay Bangar also questioned Iyer's immediate inclusion.
• The IPL 2026 mini-auction was held on December 16, 2025, in Abu Dhabi.

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