Venkatesh Iyer reveals his all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; no place for Virat Kohli

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As excitement builds ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction, set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer has added to the buzz by revealing his all-time T20 XI. Speaking to CricTracker, the 30-year-old crafted a power-packed side filled with aggressive openers, dynamic all-rounders, match-winning finishers and world-class bowlers—reflecting the evolution of T20 cricket over the past two decades.

At the top of the order, Venkatesh chose an unconventional but destructive pairing: former Indian opener Virender Sehwag and current T20I No. 1 batter Abhishek Sharma. Sehwag, known for redefining aggressive batting, brings fearless strokeplay and an unmatched ability to dominate the Powerplay. Abhishek, meanwhile, has emerged as one of India’s most dangerous T20 batters, combining clean striking with youthful confidence.

The one-down position is occupied by South African legend AB de Villiers, whose 360-degree shot range and unmatched adaptability have earned him a place in virtually every all-time T20 XI. Slotting in at No. 4 is Suresh Raina, one of India’s earliest and most consistent T20 performers, renowned for his sharp running, spin-hitting ability and experience in pressure situations.

The middle order features two of the finest pace-bowling all-rounders of the modern era—Ben Stokes and Hardik Pandya. Both offer game-changing batting and crucial overs with the ball, providing the perfect balance between aggression and stability.

At No. 7, Venkatesh entrusted leadership duties to MS Dhoni, naming him both captain and wicketkeeper. Dhoni’s tactical genius, calmness under pressure and finishing abilities make him the backbone of Iyer’s XI. His presence also offers unmatched experience and game-reading skills, crucial in high-pressure T20 scenarios.

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For the spin department, Venkatesh selected two of the most impactful T20 spinners ever—Rashid Khan and Sunil Narine. Rashid’s control, variations and wicket-taking consistency have made him a global superstar, while Narine’s unique action and ability to choke batters in the middle overs provide perfect complementarity.

The pace attack is arguably the strongest aspect of the XI. Venkatesh paired India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah with Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malinga, creating a death-overs duo that has dominated T20 cricket over the years. Malinga’s yorkers and unorthodox angles combined with Bumrah’s precision and deception form a near-unplayable combination in crunch moments.

One of the most striking aspects of Iyer’s XI is the absence of Virat Kohli, one of T20 cricket’s most celebrated batters. Kohli, the highest run-scorer in T20 World Cups and a former ICC T20I Player of the Year, has been a defining figure in the shortest format. His omission highlights Venkatesh’s preference for explosive, power-hitting profiles and multi-skilled contributors—a theme that runs throughout his XI. While Kohli’s class and consistency are undisputed, Iyer’s choices reflect a bold, modern approach prioritising impact over legacy.

Adding a tactical IPL-style innovation, Venkatesh named former Australian opener Matthew Hayden as his Impact Player. Known for his brute power and ability to bully fast bowlers, Hayden provides an extra layer of batting depth that can be used depending on match situations.

Venkatesh Iyer’s all-time T20 playing XI: Virender Sehwag, Abhishek Sharma, AB de Villiers, Suresh Raina, Ben Stokes, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine, Lasith Malinga, Jasprit Bumrah; Matthew Hayden (Impact Player).

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