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Royal Challengers Bengaluru booked their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs with a 23-run victory over Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, but the spotlight after the match shifted towards Venkatesh Iyer’s candid assessment of his season. Playing only his fourth match, Iyer struck an unbeaten 73 from 40 deliveries and received the Player of the Match award after helping RCB post 222 for 4 on a sluggish surface.

Batting at No. 4, his highest position this season, the left-hander struck eight fours and four sixes and ensured RCB finished strongly after entering with more than ten overs remaining. Iyer admitted that the recognition mattered less than finally spending time at the crease after restricted opportunities earlier in the tournament. 

"Technically, it's my second [third] game," Iyer said after the match. In his earlier outings, he had batted twice, scoring 29 not out against Rajasthan Royals and 12 against Gujarat Titans. He said batting for a longer period and securing two points for the team brought greater satisfaction than the award itself.

His innings against Punjab arrived after weeks of waiting and, by his own admission, carried emotional weight beyond the scorecard. Iyer addressed his frustration directly after the match. HE said,

"Yeah, I'd lie if I say that I was not frustrated, or you know, not wanting to play [for RCB this season]. I was really wanting to go out there and play, because for players like us, it's the opportunity to play in the IPL [that counts]." 

Iyer added, 

"We want to play, we want to do well. But I do understand. I've been here for long [enough] to understand that this is a champion team, and to tinker with a combination is not always right. But I always [asked] the coaching staff to make me play, and I will deliver. I'm really happy that I got my opportunity."

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Virat Kohli played a crucial innings of 58 runs in 37 balls, while Venkatesh Iyer scored 73 runs of 40 balls. The duo added 60 runs together on the third wicket. Speaking on the partnership, Venky said,

"I think [my innings] was scratchy at the beginning, but I was lucky to be batting alongside Virat Kohli. I''ve played after a long time in this season. I actually needed those first few balls, just to get into the groove. And once I understood the wicket, I had the freedom to go after the bowling, and I think it was good for me."

Iyer has played as a specialist batter season and has not bowled in four matches. The Impact Player rule has narrowed opportunities around his all-round role