Venkatesh Iyer determined to make strong comeback, he is a real talent: Brendon McCullum

Unlike the last season, things are not hunky-dory for Venkatesh Iyer in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder has been largely short of runs. He even got dropped from the playing XI and fans are stunned with his failure. After all, the southpaw put up a stellar show in the second half of IPL 2021 and was instrumental in taking the two-time champions to the final.

He even made it to the Indian team and did well in most of the assignments. However, Venkatesh’s fortunes have taken a turn now and it remains to be seen when he comes back to the line-up. Speaking about the all-rounder’s dismal form, KKR head coach Brendon McCullum stated that the second season syndrome seems to have hit the all-rounder.

Venkatesh Iyer is working hard at the nets: Brendon McCullum

“Yeah, obviously, he did not get as many runs as he would have liked to, Venkatesh. We were sort of forced into a situation where we had to look for other options. That’s obviously disappointing for someone who has represented India in the last 7-8 months on the back of what was a very good IPL last time in the UAE,” McCullum said at the press conference after KKR were hammered by Lucknow Super Giants by 75 runs on May 7.

“That’s a little bit of frustrating for him as well. He is working hard at the nets, trying to get his form back. That will certainly be a consideration. He is certainly not out of contention for the games to come,” he added.

Although KKR have gone with other opening options in the recent games, McCullum made it clear that doors are still open for Venkatesh to make a comeback in the line-up. “It’s Venky’s second year. Teams do a little bit more homework, it’s been historically the case in this tournament even in international cricket,” said the former New Zealand captain further.

“It’s an opportunity for Venkatesh to work on his game and improve, to come back stronger. He is a real talent, has got a good head on his shoulders. I know he is determined to take that next step and start to perform more regularly,” he added.