Simon Doull backs this batter to open with Virat Kohli against GT in IPL 2026 qualifier 1

Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Tuesday, May 26. This is going to be a key clash for both of the teams, to secure direct qualification to finals.

The dilemma regarding RCB's opening combination remains the same, as Phil Salt is back after a long injury layoff. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer has done well in the recent outings for the Bengaluru-based franchise. The former KKR all-rounder is coming after an impactful 44 off 19 balls.

Simon Doull backs Venkatesh Iyer at the top

Reacting on the situation, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull has backed Venkatesh Iyer to continue on the opening slot with Virat Kohli, as he has been doing really good for his side. Given on the recent form, Venkatesh deserves a chance, with Phil Salt coming back after a long time, it would be a big risk to start with him a in a big game like this.

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“I would stick with Venkatesh Iyer as the opener alongside Virat Kohli. Phil Salt has been out for three and a half weeks. Coming back from a long layoff, especially with a finger injury, is never easy," said Doull on JioHotstar.

While appreciating Salt's performance for both RCB and England, Doull focused on the match-fitness of the right-handed opener who is coming after a lengthy break because of a finger injury.

“He is a quality player and has done well for RCB and England in T20s, but match fitness and shot-timing take time to return. The playoffs aren’t the place to test that. Yes, Salt has a stronger partnership record with Virat, but in cricket, you always go with the player in form," added Doull.

From the other end, Virat Kohli is having a great time in the ongoing edition of the tournament with the bat. It will be interesting to see who gets the chance to open the innings with Virat against GT.

Virat Kohli's another amazing IPL campaign

The 37-year-old batter has been going through a red-hot form in the ongoing season, despite retiring from T20Is two years back. Virat Kohli has managed to amass 557 runs in 14 games at an average of 50.64 with an unusual aggressive strike rate of 163.87.

It is very unlikely of Virat to play with such attacking intent. It seems that retiring from T20Is has released a lot of baggage off his shoulders, which is a big positive for RCB in IPL 2026.