Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Andy Flower showered praise on Venkatesh Iyer after the all-rounder played another impactful knock during RCB’s IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite suffering a 55-run defeat in Hyderabad, RCB still confirmed a top-two finish and secured a place in Qualifier 1. Opening the innings during a daunting chase of 256, Iyer provided RCB with early momentum through a blistering 44 off just 19 balls.

The left-hander smashed four boundaries and four sixes before Eshan Malinga dismissed him. His aggressive start ensured Bengaluru remained in the hunt during the Powerplay despite the massive target. Speaking after the match, Flower praised Iyer’s professionalism and highlighted the patience he has shown throughout the season despite limited opportunities in the playing XI.

“Look, I’ve got a lot of respect for Venkatesh Iyer (Venky). He’s had to wait for his chance, and every time he’s had a chance — either as an impact player when we’ve needed the extra batsman because we’ve got ourselves into some trouble in the innings, or in the last two matches when he’s been given a chance, first at No.4 in Dharamsala and then today opening the batting — he’s taken all of those chances,” Andy Flower said during the post-match press conference.

ALSO READ: ‘Hitting Sixes Is Not Enough’: Virat Kohli’s Big Message To Mukul Chaudhary

The RCB coach also praised the experienced all-rounder for maintaining a positive attitude while spending long periods on the bench.

“So, his attitude throughout the season has been outstanding. I’ve got a lot of respect for a man that’s played a lot of IPL cricket, played for India, and was sitting on the sidelines waiting for his chance,” Andy Flower added. “He’s been in that dugout with a big smile on his face all the time. He’s practised hard every single session. He’s worked hard at his bowling, his fielding, and his batting. He’s been exemplary, to be honest.”

Iyer joined RCB ahead of IPL 2026 after moving from Kolkata Knight Riders in the mini-auction for ₹7 crore. Although he did not begin the season as a regular starter, the all-rounder has consistently delivered whenever called upon.

ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar Calls ESA Match ‘Special’ Ahead Of MI vs RR Clash

One of his standout performances came against Punjab Kings, where he smashed an unbeaten 73 off 40 balls and earned the Player of the Match award. In five matches this season, Iyer has scored 158 runs at an impressive average of 79 and a strike rate of 177.52.