“Tu to Allan Donald bana hua hai,” remarked Virat Kohli, drawing an intriguing comparison between Venkatesh Iyer and the legendary fast bowler Allan Donald during a recent training session.
This comment comes as Iyer embarks on a new chapter in his cricket career after being acquired by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru for ₹7 crore. Having previously played for the Kolkata Knight Riders for five seasons, Iyer’s transition marks a significant moment for both him and his new team.
In his last season with KKR, Iyer scored 142 runs in 11 matches, showcasing his potential despite a challenging season. Over his tenure with KKR, he has played 62 matches and amassed a total of 1468 runs at an impressive strike-rate of 137.32, which includes one century and 12 fifties.
The comparison to Allan Donald, known for his fierce bowling and competitive spirit, suggests that Kohli sees a similar tenacity and potential in Iyer, particularly as he prepares for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
The IPL season opener will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad, a match that will undoubtedly be a focal point for Iyer as he aims to make a strong impact in his new colors.
Historically, Iyer was originally signed by KKR for ₹23.75 crores before IPL 2025, indicating the high expectations placed upon him. His performance in the upcoming season will be closely watched, especially following Kohli’s endorsement.
As Iyer steps into this new role, he carries the weight of expectations not only from his team but also from fans who are eager to see if he can live up to the comparison with one of cricket’s greats.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how Iyer will adapt to his new environment, but the excitement surrounding his potential is palpable.
With Kohli’s words echoing in the background, all eyes will be on Venkatesh Iyer as he seeks to carve out his legacy in the IPL, potentially following in the footsteps of legends like Allan Donald.
