New Delhi, November 25, 2024
Venkatesh Iyer returned to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in style after the franchise bid an astonishing ₹23.75 crore to secure the star all-rounder at the IPL mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Iyer, who played a pivotal role in KKR’s success during IPL 2024, emerged as the third most expensive player on Day 1 of the auction and the fourth overall.
Coming into the auction, Iyer was not among the six players retained by KKR, sparking curiosity about his future with the franchise. However, KKR’s aggressive bidding reaffirmed their faith in Iyer’s abilities and his potential to lead the team in the upcoming IPL season.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Reaction
Speaking about his return to KKR, Iyer expressed gratitude and highlighted the franchise’s emphasis on player development.
“At KKR, it’s not just about winning titles; they focus heavily on nurturing talent. The way they’ve backed players like Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Harshit Rana, and our West Indian legends Sunil Narine and Andre Russell speaks volumes about their approach,” said Iyer in an interview with JioCinema.
Iyer also hinted at his leadership ambitions, saying:
“I’ve always wanted to contribute to the team as a leader. KKR provides a platform where players can freely express themselves, whether they are youngsters or seasoned campaigners. It’s this environment that allows us to grow as individuals and as a team.”
A Leadership Role on the Horizon?
With former skipper Shreyas Iyer no longer part of the squad, rumors are rife that Venkatesh Iyer is being considered as a strong candidate for the captaincy. His performances in IPL 2024, both with the bat and as a team player, have positioned him as a natural leader within the KKR setup.
A Record-Breaking Auction
The IPL 2025 mega auction has already seen record-breaking bids, with franchises vying to secure top talents. Iyer’s ₹23.75 crore price tag makes him one of the most valuable players in the league, reflecting his growing stature in T20 cricket.
KKR’s Vision for IPL 2025
As the defending champions, KKR has shown its intent to retain a strong core while preparing for the future. The addition of Venkatesh Iyer and potential leadership changes indicate a focus on continuity and innovation.
The 18th edition of the IPL is set to be one of the most exciting seasons yet, with teams bolstering their lineups in pursuit of the coveted trophy. Stay tuned to Board of Sports in India (BOSI) for the latest updates on IPL 2025 and beyond.
