EXCLUSIVE - IPL 2022: 'Iss baar IPL jeetna hai': Die-hard Rajinikanth fan Venkatesh Iyer opens up on his KKR and Team India journeys

Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their quest to end their seven year wait for the coveted IPL 2022 trophy when they take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings in the tournament opener this time on March 26 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. KKR's dashing all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, who was fast-tracked into the Indian limited overs teams based largely on his IPL heroics last season, is confident that KKR who are two-time champions will once again have a successful season. Last season, KKR made it to the final, but lost to CSK in the summit clash. The very tall left hand batsman, Iyer, is known for his attacking style of play and was retained by KKR ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. He played 10 matches for KKR last season and scored 370 runs at a very healthy average of 41.11. He also bagged three wickets in the 2021 edition. Iyer made headlines in phase 2 of IPL 2021. Due to his attacking style of play, Iyer was asked to open in the crucial Qualifier 2 vs Delhi Capitals. After KKR restricted DC to 135 in 20 overs, Iyer, who opened the innings with Shubman Gill, tore apart Delhi's bowling attack with a blistering 55 off 41 balls, which included 4 fours and 3 mammoth sixes. Iyer was also adjudged Man of the match in Qualifier2.

Venkatesh Iyer (BCCI/IPL Photo)Overall, the lanky left-handed batsman hit 37 fours and 14 sixes on his IPL debut, at a strike rate of 128.47. He also bowled 8.3 overs in the tournament and took 3 wickets. With Venky Iyer brimming with confidence now, post his India debut and eyeing a more successful season for himself and his team in the 15th edition of the IPL, TimesofIndia.com caught up with the 6 foot 2 inch tall cricketer to talk about KKR's chances this year, his bonhomie with the Iyer