In the dynamic world of cricket, where talent meets opportunity, Venkatesh Iyer has emerged as an important figure after the recent ones IPL 2025 mega auction. The total was obtained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering INR 23.75 crore, making him the fourth costliest player in IPL history. This memorable moment not only highlights his individual ability but also reinforces the strategic decisions made by franchises in the competitive landscape of T20 cricket.
Mutual loyalty between Venkatesh Iyer and KKR
Ahead of the auction, Iyer expressed a strong desire to stay with KKR, the franchise that had nurtured his talent since his debut in 2021. In discussions with the KKR management, he openly expressed his feelings, saying he would be disappointed if he wasn't re-elected.
CEO of KKR Venky Mysore this opinion was later confirmed, indicating that Iyer's passion for the team played an important role in their bidding strategy.
“I had a word with him before the arrest was announced. He was very clear telling me 'we can't keep you because of the retention rules' and not because they didn't want me in KKR. So I told him, 'Sir, if you have the option, and if you can, please do everything you can to bring me back to KKR'. It worked that way, didn't it? It shows how much he trusts me and believes in me. I would like to thank him very much. Over the years, we have built a wonderful relationship. I really felt grateful,” Iyer told Indian Express, expressing his commitment to the franchise that has been synonymous with his cricketing identity.
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The bidding war for Iyer
The auction itself saw an intense bidding war between KKR and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Both teams recognized Iyer's potential and contributions, leading to a significant increase in applications.
“In fact, when you see the paddle lifting you, you never want the paddle to stop lifting you. But after some time, I really felt that both RCB and KKR were pushing for me. I think it shows how much trust KKR have in me. I was surprised, but at the same time, very happy. To be honest, I wanted to play for KKR. If it were in my hands, I would like to be held. But that didn't happen. I am very happy to be back at KKR“, he said and thought about the experience.
In the end, KKR came through, reinforcing their belief in Iyer's abilities as a player.
Iyer on the leadership of KKR
With such a huge investment in him, speculations arose regarding Iyer's possible role as captain IPL 2025. Although some reports suggest that veteran Rathian Field may take the reins, Iyer's comments indicate his willingness to accept leadership responsibilities.
“I have always said that I want to be a leader in any situation I walk into, be it Madhya Pradesh, an IPL team, or even an Indian team. Being a leader, you want to contribute your ideas, with your suggestions. You don't need the cap tag for that. So I always want to be a leader in the dressing room. And if a captain comes our way, it will be an honor to lead such a prestigious franchise. Let's see what's in it for me,” said Iyer, stressing that leadership transcends titles and is about contributing positively to team dynamics.
Total match performance for KKR
Iyer's performance during the IPL 2024 season confirmed his value as a spinner. He scored 370 runs at an impressive average of 46.25 and showed an ability to handle pressure with a strike rate of over 158. His contributions were instrumental in KKR's title-winning campaign, including a memorable century against Mumbai Indians (MI). His consistent performances have made him the cornerstone of KKR's strategy moving forward.
