IPL 2025: Ajinkya Rahane Appointed KKR Captain, Venkatesh Iyer Named Vice-Captain: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially appointed Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for IPL 2025, with Venkatesh Iyer being named as the vice-captain. This leadership duo is expected to guide the defending champions to yet another successful campaign in the upcoming season.
Rahane’s Leadership Talk and Return to KKR
Rahane, a vastly experienced Indian batsman, was auctioned back to KKR during the IPL 2024 mega auction for its base price of INR 1.5 crore. He comes in with cool-headedness and tactical wisdom and will usher in a new phase for the team. His earlier experiences as captain include IPL’s Rajasthan Royals and Test cricket for India.
Speaking about KKR’s CEO, Venky Mysore expressed confidence in Rahane’s leadership: “Ajinkya Rahane is one person who delves deep into his experience and maturity as a leader,” added he. “Also, Venkatesh Iyer has been a franchise person for KKR and brings a lot of leadership qualities. We are quite confident that they will complement each other well as we go along the defence of our title.”
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Venkatesh Iyer’s Ascendancy to Leadership: The vice-captaincy award for IPL 2025 went to Venkatesh Iyer, who has been an intrinsic part of KKR since his debut in 2021. The left-handed all-rounder has effected several match-winning performances and won accolades as one of the most critical cogs in KKR’s success in recent years.
Ahead of this announcement, Iyer had hinted to be ready for leadership responsibilities: “If it comes to me, I’d love to lead KKR. I’ve learnt so much from this team, and I’m holding up to any challenges.”
KKR’s Leadership Pair: IPL Stats Comparison
Ajinkya Rahane’s IPL Career Stats
Matches: 185
Runs: 4,642
Highest Score: 105*
Batting Average: 30.14
Strike Rate: 123.42
50s/100s: 30/2
Fours/Sixes: 478/103
Venkatesh Iyer’s IPL Career Stats
Matches: 50
Runs: 1,326
Highest Score: 104
Batting Average: 31.57
Strike Rate: 137.13
50s/100s: 11/1
Fours/Sixes: 121/61
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KKR begins its IPL 2025 campaign
KKR opens their IPL 2025 season against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22. With Rahane’s stability and Iyer’s aggressive approach, the Knight Riders hope to defend their title successfully.
