Venkatesh Iyer Stars with 73 as RCB Secures Playoff Spot in IPL 2026
IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer on his match-winning 73 for RCB vs PBKS
Asianet Newsable
Image: Asianet Newsable
Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten 73 led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a 23-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026, securing RCB's playoff qualification. Iyer expressed his satisfaction in finally getting a chance to contribute significantly, crediting Virat Kohli for his support during the innings.
- 01RCB became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs after their victory over PBKS.
- 02Venkatesh Iyer had previously played for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and expressed a strong emotional bond with the team.
- 03Iyer acknowledged the professional environment at RCB and credited coaches Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, and Dinesh Karthik for their support.
- 04Punjab Kings faced their sixth consecutive defeat, struggling to chase a target of 223 runs.
- 05PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer and other top-order batters failed to perform, leading to early wickets.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a thrilling match at the HPCA Stadium, Venkatesh Iyer of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scored an impressive 73 runs, leading his team to a 23-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026. This win marked RCB as the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs. Iyer expressed his delight at finally receiving a proper opportunity to bat, stating, "Today is the first time I got to properly bat. That was the pleasing thing, and getting two points of course." He praised the professional environment at RCB and credited coaches Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, and Dinesh Karthik for their support. Iyer, who has a past with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), acknowledged his emotional connection to the franchise but stated he feels at home with RCB. Meanwhile, PBKS continues to struggle, suffering their sixth consecutive defeat and leaving them in a precarious position as they aim to stay in the playoff race with a must-win match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
RCB's victory secures their playoff position, boosting team morale and fan support, while PBKS faces increased pressure to perform in their upcoming match.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think RCB will win the IPL 2026 championship?
Connecting to poll...
More about Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.