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Venkatesh Iyer From KKR, And...: 3 Prime RCB Targets In IPL Trade Ahead Of Next Season

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer [Source: AFP Media]Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer [Source: AFP Media]

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally broke their 18-year drought by winning the IPL 2025. But the defending champions will still look to pluck some holes in their composition, so that the 2025 season does not stand out as a fluke. 

With the IPL trade window open and all teams looking to build a strong unit, some strong rumours have also centred around the latest champions. Here is a look at the three most probable moves that might happen for RCB ahead of IPL 2026 and how feasible these trades are for the franchise - 

3. Mukesh Kumar From Delhi Capitals

Mukesh Kumar [Source: AFP Media]Mukesh Kumar [Source: AFP Media]

The bowling unit of RCB looked much better in IPL 2025 than before that. With Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, the attack looked solid; however, there will still be areas where they might look to improve.

The inclusion of Mukesh Kumar has been in discussions, and there is a chance that this trade might go through. 

Why this move makes sense:

  • His bowling approach suits the Chinnaswamy conditions better than Delhi's pitches
  • Provides powerplay specialist, RCB would like
  • Experienced Indian pacer adds crucial depth

Delhi's willingness to trade stems from Mukesh's limited success at their home venue.

2. Glenn Phillips From Gujarat Titans

Glenn Phillips [Source: AFP Media]Glenn Phillips [Source: AFP Media]

Liam Livingstone turned out to be a flop investment for RCB during the IPL 2025. He was supposed to be a power-hitting finisher and a spinner who could bowl crucial overs for the team, releasing pressure from the main bowlers.

However, Livingstone underperformed significantly during the last edition of the tournament. Glenn Phillips could be all that they expected from the English all-rounder. 

Perfect fit for RCB:

  • Proven finisher with recent MLC 2025 success
  • Tactical versatility (batting positions 3-7, part-time bowling)
  • The untapped IPL potential after GT barely utilised him

Gujarat's packed overseas options and Phillips' limited opportunities make this trade mutually beneficial.

1. Venkatesh Iyer from KKR for Liam Livingstone + Cash

Venkatesh Iyer [Source: AFP Media]Venkatesh Iyer [Source: AFP Media]

Ahead of IPL 2025 and even after that, RCB showed deep interest in KKR's Venkatesh Iyer. The induction of Iyer gives them a left-handed option in the top order.

On the other hand, Liam Livingstone turned out to be an investment that yielded little result for RCB. With Andre Russell reaching the dusk of his career, KKR will be looking for options who could play the role of a finisher and also bowl some overs for them. This makes Livingstone an entity of interest for the 2024 champions.

Why it works for RCB:

  • Provides tactical balance with left-handed batting variety
  • Iyer's style suits Chinnaswamy's batting-friendly conditions
  • Coaching setup believes they can unlock his potential

Why KKR benefits:

  • Reduces salary burden from underperforming asset
  • Gets replacement value in Livingstone plus cash
  • Offers both players fresh starts in new systems

Livingstone's ₹8.75 crore investment yielded only 112 runs for RCB, making this swap logical for both franchises.

Strategic Impact Of The 3 Trades

These trades would:

  • Optimise finances: Replace expensive underperformers with better-fitting players
  • Address weaknesses: Left-handed balance (Iyer), finishing power (Phillips), bowling depth (Mukesh)
  • Signal intent: Champions building dynasty, not just defending title

These trades would signify the fact that RCB are making calculated moves for sustained success, rather than resting on their maiden triumph.