I’ve really felt at home here – Venkatesh Iyer on being a part of RCB

RCB rode high on an incredible knock from Venkatesh Iyer to inflict the sixth consecutive defeat on Punjab Kings in Himachal Pradesh and seal the former's spot in the IPL 2026 playoffs. A sensational innings of 73 from just 40 balls earned him the Player of the Match award. Talking at the post-match presentation, Venky opened up on how he wanted to make the most of the opportunities he received.

He was also vocal about RCB making him feel at home after a long stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders. He emphasized the emotional undertones surrounding his arrival in Bengaluru.

Shedding light on his Player of the Match award, Venky Iyer said, “Yeah, technically it’s my second game being part of the playing XI and today’s the first time I properly got to bat. So that’s the more pleasing thing than getting a Man of the Match. And also the two points, so really happy.”

Explaining his connection with RCB, Iyer added, “They’ve welcomed me very well. Obviously, it’s a very professional setup and the cricket part of it, the management, it’s just unbelievable. All credit to Mo Bobat and DK, the way they have taken care of the boys, it’s just unbelievable. On top of that, the brand of cricket that RCB plays is something that excites me a lot. I’ve spent a lot of time at KKR, so yeah, there will be an emotional bond, but I’ve really felt at home here.”