IPL 2021: He's Got Something About Him - Brendon McCullum Believes Venkatesh Iyer Could Become Like Adam Gilchrist

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum feels that their latest opening batsman, Venkatesh Iyer, has got a stroke-filled playstyle and could develop to become like former Australian wicket-keeper batsman, Adam Gilchrist.

McCullum explained that Iyer might be inconsistent because of his array of strokes but elaborated that he’ll either be scoring hundreds or ducks. In a conversation with IPL commentators during Match 34 between Mumbai Indians and KKR, McCullum said:

“Venkatesh Iyer on debut – I thought his composure was fantastic to watch. I think he might be one of those players who might end up inconsistent… with the way that he plays and the stroke-making that he possesses.”

“But I think he’s got the ability to win games when he’s on. Think he could be one of those players who go hundred, hundred, zero, zero. He just might be one of those types, sort of Adam Gilchrist type of player. He’s got something about him.“

“He’s a highly intelligent player as well” – Brendon McCullum

While continuing his praise of the newest batting prospect, Brendon McCullum was excited about the combination of Iyer and Shubman Gill at the top. KKR had struggles with their opening pair in the first phase and they’ve turned to Iyer for a fix.

“He’s a highly intelligent player as well for someone who’s relatively inexperienced as well. I think the combination along with Shubman Gill is something that enthuses me as a fellow top-order batsman [myself] – the way they’re able to complement each other,” he added.

The opening pair of Iyer and Gill will be seen in action tonight when they come out to chase against MI. They had a terrific outing on Monday against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) where they put up an 81-run stand for the first wicket.

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