Venkatesh Iyer reveals his all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; no room for Virat Kohli
As enthusiasm grows as the IPL2026 mega auction, which will take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, an Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer added to the buzz by revealing his all-time T20 XI. Talk to CricTrackerthe 30-year-old has created a powerhouse team 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.
Venkatesh Iyer’s all-time T20 XI
An explosive opening pair and a star-studded first order
At the top of the rankings, Venkatesh chose an unconventional but destructive duo: former Indian opener Virender Sehwag and current T20I No. 1 batter Abhishek Sharma. Sehwag, known for redefining the aggressive hitter, brings a fearless strokeplay and unmatched ability to dominate the Powerplay. Abhishek, meanwhile, has become one of India’s most dangerous T20 hitters, combining crisp hitting and youthful confidence.
The first place is occupied by the South African legend AB de Villierswhose 360-degree shooting range and unrivaled adaptability have earned him a place in virtually every T20 XI of all time. Slotting in at #4 is Suresh Rainaone of India’s premier and most consistent T20 players, renowned for his running, hitting ability and experience in pressure situations.
MS Dhoni’s overall power and leadership in the middle order
The middle order features two of the best Pace Bowling all-rounders of the modern era:Ben Stokes And Hardik Pandya. Both deliver game-changing strikes and crucial overs with the ball, providing the perfect balance between aggression and stability.
At No. 7, Venkatesh handed over management duties to MS Dhoniappointing him as both captain and wicketkeeper. Dhoni’s tactical brilliance, calmness under pressure and finishing abilities make him the backbone of Iyer’s XI. His presence also offers unrivaled experience and game reading skills, crucial in high-pressure T20 scenarios.
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A deadly spin duo and an iconic fast bowling pair
For the spinning department, Venkatesh has selected two of the most impactful T20 spinners of all time:Rachid Khan And Sunil Narine. Rashid’s control, variation and consistency in wicket-taking have made him a global superstar, while Narine’s unique action and ability to stifle batters in the middle provide a perfect complement.
The quick attack is arguably the strongest aspect of the XI. Venkatesh paired India’s first fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah with Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malingacreating a lethal duo that has dominated T20 cricket over the years. Malinga’s yorkers and unorthodox angles combined with Bumrah’s precision and deception make for an almost unplayable combination at critical moments.
No place for Virat Kohli in Iyer’s XI
One of the most striking aspects of Iyer’s XI is the absence of Virat Kohlione of the most famous batters in T20 cricket. Kohli, the top scorer in T20 World Cups and former ICC T20I Player of the Year, has been a defining figure in the shortest format. His omission highlights Venkatesh’s preference for explosive, powerful profiles and versatile contributors – a theme that runs throughout his XI. While Kohli’s class and consistency are unquestioned, Iyer’s choices reflect a bold, modern approach prioritizing impact over legacy.
Adding IPL-style tactical innovation, Venkatesh named former Australian opener Matthew Hayden as an impact player. Known for his raw power and ability to intimidate 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 & sem), Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine, Lasith Malinga, Jasprit Bumrah; Matthew Hayden (Impact Player).
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