Venkatesh Iyer is a dynamic Indian all-rounder known for his aggressive left-handed batting and useful medium-pace bowling. He currently represents Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL and plays for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket. With a base price of ₹2 crore, he enters the 2026 auction as a capped player.
In IPL 2025, Venkatesh played a pivotal role for KKR, amassing 487 runs in 14 matches at an average of 40.58 and a strike rate of 148.9. His standout knocks included an unbeaten 104 off 51 balls against Punjab Kings and a match-winning 89 against Mumbai Indians. He also contributed with the ball, picking up 7 wickets, underlining his value as a genuine all-rounder.
Several franchises are expected to show strong interest in Venkatesh at the 2026 auction. Teams like Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Sunrisers Hyderabad could target him to bolster their middle order and add all-round depth. His proven ability to perform under pressure makes him an attractive option for franchises seeking balance.
Given his consistent performances and all-round utility, Venkatesh is likely to attract bids well above his base price. A realistic auction price could range between ₹8-12 crore, depending on the competition among interested teams. In IPL 2026, he is expected to continue delivering impactful performances with both bat and ball, further cementing his reputation as a match-winner.