Simon Doull Suggests RCB to Open with Venkatesh Iyer in IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are reportedly considering a bold tactical shift for their crucial IPL 2026 qualifier against Gujarat Titans, as cricket analyst Simon Doull has recommended opening the innings with Venkatesh Iyer alongside Virat Kohli. The suggestion comes ahead of the high-stakes match, which will determine which team advances to the final. Doull, a former New Zealand cricketer and respected commentator, emphasized that pairing Iyer with Kohli could provide RCB with a significant edge against Gujarat’s formidable bowling attack. Iyer’s recent performance in the league phase has sparked optimism about his potential as an opener. In a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, the 26-year-old Indian batter showcased his class, scoring 44 runs off just 19 balls. His ability to dominate the powerplay, combined with his adaptability against spin and pace bowlers, has drawn praise from experts. Doull highlighted Iyer’s “unmatched ability to exploit the powerplay and counter the spinners effectively,” noting that his form could disrupt Gujarat’s bowling strategy. The analyst also pointed out that Iyer’s left-handed batting style could create challenges for Gujarat’s right-arm bowlers, who often rely on movement off the seam. This could force the opposition into defensive tactics, allowing RCB’s middle-order to capitalize on the scoreboard. Doull argued that Iyer’s aggressive approach, paired with Kohli’s experience, would set the tone for the innings and put pressure on Gujarat’s bowlers. RCB’s management is now under pressure to decide whether to adopt this strategy. The team’s success in the playoffs often hinges on their ability to adapt to different conditions and opposition strategies.#virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bangalore #venkatesh_iyer #simon_doull #ipl_2026_qualifier_1
