IPL 2025: KKR have named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain and Venkatesh Iyer as the vice-captain for the upcoming season. (KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday named Ajinkya Rahane as the team’s captain for the forthcoming IPL 2025 season. All-rounder Venkatesh Iyer was named as the defending champions’ vice-captain as IPL season is slated to begin on March 22.
The 36-year-old Rahane marked a reunion with KKR after having previously featured for the side in the 2022 season. The Mumbaikar was snapped up for Rs 1.5 crore during the IPL 2025 Mega Auction in November 2024. Rahane had a prolific domestic season with Mumbai, leading them to the Irani Cup and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy titles.
Rahane was at his prolific best in the SMAT T20s and topped the batting charts, smashing 469 runs in eight innings, averaging 58.62 with a 164.56 strike rate and five half-centuries. Meanwhile, Venkatesh was released to the pool ahead of the mega auction but received a whopping Rs 23.75 crore bid from KKR, making him the third-most expensive Indian player in the league.
Making the announcement, Venky Mysore, CEO of KKR said, “We are delighted to have someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who brings his experience and maturity as a leader. Also, Venkatesh Iyer has been a franchise player for KKR and brings a lot of leadership qualities. We are confident that they will combine well as we start the defense of our title.”
Accepting the leadership role, Rahane said, “It’s an honour to be asked to lead KKR, which has been one of the most successful franchises in the IPL. I think we have an excellent and balanced squad. I look forward to working with everyone and taking up the challenge of defending our title.”
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