Venkatesh Iyer has broken his silence about the crucial advice he received from MS Dhoni during a pivotal moment in his career. Following his release from Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026, the versatile all-rounder revealed how the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman’s words are guiding his professional reset and future ambitions.
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Venkatesh Iyer’s Career Journey: Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Venkatesh Iyer |
| Role | All-rounder (Batting, Medium pace) |
| Previous Team | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| IPL 2026 Status | Released, entering auction |
| Mentor | MS Dhoni |
| Current Focus | Career reset and reinvention |
The MS Dhoni Connection
In a candid conversation, Iyer disclosed how Dhoni’s mentorship has become instrumental during this transitional phase. The former Indian captain, renowned for his tactical brilliance and calm demeanor, shared insights about handling setbacks and transforming challenges into opportunities.
Dhoni’s advice reportedly centered on maintaining mental composure, refining specific skills, and approaching the upcoming IPL auction with renewed confidence. For a player experiencing the uncertainty of franchise release, such guidance from cricket’s most successful captain carries immense weight.
Life After KKR Release
Venkatesh Iyer’s journey with Kolkata Knight Riders showcased flashes of brilliance, particularly during his breakthrough 2021 season when he emerged as a revelation. However, inconsistency and changing team dynamics led to his eventual release ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction.
Rather than viewing this as a setback, Iyer embraces it as an opportunity for reinvention. The all-rounder has intensified training routines, worked on technical adjustments, and developed mental resilience—qualities emphasized by Dhoni during their interactions.
What’s Next for the All-Rounder?
Heading into the IPL 2026 auction, Iyer represents an intriguing prospect for franchises seeking versatile options. His ability to provide explosive starts with the bat and contribute useful overs makes him valuable in T20 cricket’s demanding landscape.
Several teams might view him as a potential game-changer, especially those requiring batting depth and bowling flexibility. His recent form in domestic cricket suggests he’s addressing previous weaknesses while building on existing strengths.
The Dhoni Effect on Young Cricketers
MS Dhoni’s influence extends far beyond his playing days. Young cricketers consistently seek his counsel, valuing perspectives gained through unparalleled success and pressure situations. Iyer joins a long list of players benefiting from Dhoni’s wisdom, including emerging Indian cricket talents.
As Venkatesh Iyer navigates this career-defining phase, Dhoni’s mentorship could prove transformative. The coming months will reveal whether this reset translates into IPL success and potentially reignites his international cricket aspirations.
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