Royal Challengers Bengaluru are preparing their batting order for IPL 2026, and one important question remains unanswered. The team must decide who will bat at number three in the lineup.
Two players are in contention for the spot: Devdutt Padikkal and Venkatesh Iyer. Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has shared his opinion on the issue, suggesting that Padikkal could be the preferred option.
Raina’s View on RCB’s Batting Order
Suresh Raina believes RCB may choose Devdutt Padikkal to bat at number three. According to him, the team might keep a balanced batting lineup with experienced and attacking players in different positions.
He suggested that Virat Kohli and Phil Salt could open the innings. Jitesh Sharma might bat at number four, while captain Rajat Patidar could move to number five if needed.
This setup would allow Padikkal to take the number three position and provide stability between the openers and the middle order.
Possible RCB Top Order for IPL 2026
| Batting Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Opening | Virat Kohli |
| Opening | Phil Salt |
| No. 3 | Devdutt Padikkal |
| No. 4 | Jitesh Sharma |
| No. 5 | Rajat Patidar |
This combination would also maintain a mix of left-handed and right-handed batters, which is often helpful in T20 cricket.
Why Venkatesh Iyer Is Still a Strong Option
While Raina suggested Padikkal for the number three role, he also pointed out that Venkatesh Iyer could be a strong option depending on the pitch conditions.
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is known for high-scoring matches and fast outfields. According to Raina, these conditions could suit Iyer’s aggressive batting style.
Iyer is known for his ability to hit the ball across all parts of the ground and score quickly in the powerplay or middle overs.
Also See : Virat Kohli Arrives in Bengaluru as RCB Prepare for IPL 2026
Recent Form of Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer had a difficult IPL 2025 season. After leaving Kolkata Knight Riders before the mega auction, he was later bought back by the same franchise for a high price.
However, his performances during the season did not meet expectations.
Venkatesh Iyer IPL 2025 Performance
| Matches | Runs | Average |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 142 | 20.29 |
These numbers were lower than his previous seasons, where he had been one of the consistent performers for KKR.
Devdutt Padikkal’s Situation Before IPL 2026
Devdutt Padikkal missed part of IPL 2025 because of an injury. During his absence, Mayank Agarwal replaced him in the lineup.
Padikkal is known for his calm batting style and ability to build innings, which could make him a reliable option at number three.
If he regains full fitness and form, RCB might prefer him in that position.
RCB Squad for IPL 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have built a strong squad for IPL 2026 with a mix of experienced players and young talents.
RCB Squad 2026
| Players |
|---|
| Virat Kohli |
| Phil Salt (wk) |
| Devdutt Padikkal |
| Rajat Patidar (c) |
| Tim David |
| Krunal Pandya |
| Romario Shepherd |
| Jitesh Sharma (wk) |
| Bhuvneshwar Kumar |
| Yash Dayal |
| Josh Hazlewood |
| Suyash Sharma |
| Abhinandan Singh |
| Jacob Bethell |
| Nuwan Thushara |
| Rasikh Dar |
| Swapnil Singh |
| Venkatesh Iyer |
| Jacob Duffy |
| Satvik Deswal |
| Mangesh Yadav |
| Jordon Cox (wk) |
| Kanishk Chouhan |
| Vihaan Malhotra |
| Vicky Ostwal |
The choice between Devdutt Padikkal and Venkatesh Iyer at number three will play an important role in shaping RCB’s batting order.
Padikkal offers stability and control, while Iyer brings power and attacking intent.
The team management will likely decide based on form, pitch conditions, and overall team balance as the IPL 2026 season approaches.
