“Best support staff I have played with” – Venkatesh Iyer

Andy Flower

In an exclusive interview with Boria Majumdar, RevSportz’s editor-in-chief, Venkatesh Iyer spoke of the roles played by Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) winning back-to-back IPL titles. He also reflected on the contribution of the support staff that has helped shape RCB into the most formidable team in the league.

When asked about Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik, he responded without hesitation: “Best support staff I have played with, purely in terms of communication, role clarity, handling of players and situations, and also empowering players to make decisions.”

He further added: “Especially in India, we are used to coaches dictating situations, which is necessary. However, empowering players to make their own decisions and creating an environment where they feel encouraged to take on leadership roles is something these people have achieved.”

He also spoke highly of Dinesh Karthik and praised his work ethic, saying: “If I had to point out the most hardworking person, it was Dinesh Karthik. From going out to the outer nets and working with the batters, then coming back to the centre nets, talking to batters and throwing balls at them for drills, I have never seen a more hardworking batting coach than DK.”

Andy Flower, Mo Bobat with Virat Kohli
Andy Flower, Mo Bobat with Virat Kohli (PC: RCB)

The admiration was evident before the conversation turned to Flower, of whom he said: “The same goes for Andy, and he has an amazing résumé. So many championships – they speak for themselves. Obviously, wherever he has gone, he has created a winning culture.”

Venkatesh also reflected on the role of Mo Bobat, RCB’s Director of Cricket: “The key that holds all of this together is Mo Bobat.” He added: “The way he has led the entire RCB resurgence has been nothing short of phenomenal.”

For Venkatesh, the success of RCB’s support staff extends beyond preparing players to perform on the field. Instead, it is rooted in communication, trust, encouragement and the ability to create an environment where players feel confident and empowered to take ownership of their roles.

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The post “Best support staff I have played with” – Venkatesh Iyer appeared first on Sports News Portal | Revsportz.



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