“They can go for a left-hand-right-hand”: Ex-CSK batter drops key advice for RCB ahead of IPL 2026

“They can go for a left-hand-right-hand”: Ex-CSK batter drops key advice for RCB ahead of IPL 2026

Suresh Raina Backs Devdutt Padikkal for Number 3 Spot in RCB Batting Order

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Suresh Raina has shared his prediction for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batting order. Raina believes that Devdutt Padikkal should claim the number 3 position in the lineup.

Devdutt Padikkal’s Impressive Performance

Devdutt Padikkal has been in stellar form leading up to the IPL season. The Karnataka batsman showcased his prowess by accumulating 543 runs in 11 matches in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season with an impressive average of 54.30. His standout performance came in the semifinals where he scored a record-breaking 232-run knock.

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Padikkal continued his dominance, amassing 725 runs in 9 matches at a remarkable average of 90.63. Additionally, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, he maintained a batting average of 61.80 with a strike rate of 167.03 across 6 innings.

Raina’s Batting Order Recommendation

According to Raina, RCB should deploy Padikkal at number 3, with Virat Kohli and Phil Salt opening the innings. Jitesh Sharma could potentially slot in at number 4, while Raina himself could feature at number 5 if captain Rajat Patidar allows. Raina also highlighted the advantage of having a left-hand-right-hand combination in the batting lineup.

Venkatesh Iyer’s Role in the Team

With Padikkal likely occupying the number 3 slot, questions arise about the role of Venkatesh Iyer in the RCB setup. Iyer, who was a significant acquisition for the team at ₹7 crore, is seen by Raina as an impactful player who can maintain a left-right batting combination.

Raina emphasized that Iyer’s skills are well-suited to the conditions in Bengaluru, suggesting that his ability to score all around the ground could prove valuable for the team. The presence of a finisher like Jitesh Sharma further strengthens the left-hand-right-hand combination strategy.

Comparing Performances

While Padikkal has been delivering consistently impressive performances, Venkatesh Iyer faced some challenges in recent domestic fixtures. The all-rounder scored 367 runs in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season at an average of 36.70, followed by a batting average of 25.14 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. During the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 2025 tournament, Iyer’s batting average stood at 26.38.

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, RCB fans eagerly await the unveiling of the team’s batting order and the performances that will unfold on the field. With Raina’s insights and predictions, the anticipation for the upcoming season grows among cricket enthusiasts.

The Importance of a Strong Middle Order

Building a strong middle order is crucial for any T20 team, and Suresh Raina’s recommendation for the RCB batting lineup reflects this understanding. In T20 cricket, the middle overs play a significant role in determining the outcome of the match. Having reliable and versatile batsmen in positions 3, 4, and 5 can provide stability and firepower to capitalize on the momentum gained in the powerplay overs.

Devdutt Padikkal’s consistency and ability to anchor the innings make him an ideal candidate for the number 3 position. His recent performances in domestic cricket demonstrate his form and readiness to take on the responsibility of stabilizing the innings if the openers depart early. Padikkal’s adaptability and temperament under pressure make him a valuable asset in the middle order.

The Impact of Left-Hand, Right-Hand Combination

One of the key advantages of having a left-hand, right-hand batting combination in the lineup is the challenge it poses to the bowlers. Bowling attacks often struggle to settle into a rhythm when facing alternating left and right-handed batsmen. This disruption in the bowlers’ line and length can create scoring opportunities and force them to constantly adjust their plans.

With Virat Kohli and Phil Salt likely to open the innings for RCB, the left-hand, right-hand combination at the top sets the stage for Padikkal and potentially Jitesh Sharma to continue the pattern in the middle order. This strategic approach can keep the opposition bowlers on their toes and create favorable match-ups for the RCB batsmen.

The Versatility of Venkatesh Iyer

While Venkatesh Iyer may face competition for a spot in the playing XI with Padikkal’s inclusion in the middle order, his versatility as an all-rounder adds depth to the RCB squad. Iyer’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides flexibility to the team management in selecting the playing combination based on the match conditions.

Moreover, Iyer’s recent experiences in domestic cricket, although not as prolific as Padikkal’s, have equipped him with the skills and resilience to perform under pressure. His knack for scoring quickly and rotating the strike can complement the top and middle-order batsmen, adding another dimension to the RCB batting lineup.

Conclusion

As the IPL 2026 season beckons, the anticipation surrounding the RCB batting order intensifies with Suresh Raina’s backing of Devdutt Padikkal for the number 3 spot. The dynamics of a strong middle order, the strategic advantage of a left-hand, right-hand combination, and the versatility of players like Venkatesh Iyer set the stage for an exciting season ahead.

With Raina’s insights shaping the team’s strategy, RCB fans can look forward to witnessing a well-balanced and competitive batting lineup that aims to excel in the high-octane T20 environment. The synergy between established players and emerging talents bodes well for RCB’s quest for IPL glory in the upcoming season.

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