IPL 2026: 3 Teams that should look to bid for Venkatesh Iyer in the auction

Venkatesh Iyer’s release by the Kolkata Knight Riders was one of the retention day’s biggest financial shocks. A marquee player bought for ₹23.75 crore, who failed to justify that tag in 2025. That makes him an attractive buy-low option at the mini-auction. A left-handed batter with genuine power, some seam overs and experience of big-match situations. Here are three teams that should be aggressive for him.

1) Chennai Super Kings

CSK often builds around multi-role overseas players who can be used in different slots. Iyer gives them both a left-hand power option and a seam-over option without breaking the bank. With Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the mix, CSK could use a batter who can anchor or blitz at No. 4–6 depending on match situations. 

Iyer’s ability to hit over the infield and rotate strike makes him ideal for Chepauk’s small squares and the slow middle overs CSK frequently exploit. With a large purse after retentions, CSK can afford to spend on a player who offers immediate tactical flexibility and multi-season value.

2) Sunrisers Hyderabad

SRH’s top order is powerful, but the team needs dependable middle-order options who can either consolidate or accelerate. Iyer fits that mould: he can bat as an anchor when the top falls away, or play the finishers’ role when the platform exists. 

Crucially, his right-arm seam bowling, even if occasional, gives SRH an extra seam option in long tournaments, allowing them to rotate frontline quicks more safely. Given SRH’s recent retention strategy around overseas firepower and seam aggression, Iyer would be a sensible, role-specific buy.

3) Kolkata Knight Riders

KKR themselves are a strong candidate to shop for Iyer again. Releasing him freed a huge purse chunk, but bringing him back at auction price allows KKR to buy the same skillset without the original mega tag and to rebuild around him with less financial pressure. 

KKR also lost a few power options during the retention window and has to reconcile overseas slots with a more balanced XI. Iyer’s familiarity with the franchise, the ground and the dressing room culture shortens the reintegration timeline.

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