India, Dec. 16 -- Royal Challengers Bengaluru made it their mission to acquire India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer to their ranks, buying him for INR 7 crore at the IPL 2026 mini auction. It was a bidding war, as RCB had to fend off the likes of KKR, LSG, and GT. RCB also roped in Jacob Duffy for INR 2 crore.

Defending champions RCB retained most of their star players from last season. Rajat Patidar will once again lead the franchise, and Virat Kohli is also still there.

After buying Iyer, RCB head coach Andy Flower said, "It's two years running we've battled KKR for Venky-we both rate him highly, so it's great to have him on board. We met him, chatted, and loved his competitive spirit, smarts, and leadership qualities for the dressing roo...