Ajinkya Rahane Appointed as New Captain of Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2025
In a major leadership change for the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have appointed veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain ahead of the IPL 2025 season. Rahane takes over the reins from Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to their third IPL title in 2024. Iyer, however, was released by the franchise and later bought by Punjab Kings for a record-breaking sum of INR 26.75 Crore. Rahane’s appointment marks a new chapter for KKR, with Venkatesh Iyer, a key player for the franchise, being named as his deputy for the upcoming season.
Shreyas Iyer’s Departure and Rahane’s Appointment
Shreyas Iyer’s departure from KKR came as a surprise to many, given that he had played a pivotal role in the team’s success last season, leading them to the IPL 2024 title. After being released by KKR, Iyer was signed by Punjab Kings for a hefty price, signaling the end of his leadership tenure with the Kolkata-based franchise. However, KKR wasted no time in securing a new leader, turning to Ajinkya Rahane, who had previously played for the franchise in 2022 before joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Rahane, who had been largely underwhelming in the previous season, was picked up by KKR at his base price of INR 1.50 Crore during the IPL 2025 auction after his remarkable performances in domestic cricket.
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Rahane’s Form Rebound: From Auction Snub to IPL Captain
Ajinkya Rahane’s journey to becoming the captain of KKR is a tale of resilience. Despite a quiet season with CSK, where he only managed 242 runs in 13 innings, Rahane made a remarkable comeback in domestic cricket. His stellar performances for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he scored 469 runs at an average of 58.62 and a strike rate of 164.56, earned him a place in KKR’s squad. This resurgence in form has put Rahane in a strong position to lead KKR as they look to defend their IPL title.
Rahane’s appointment as captain comes after a significant shift in his form and reputation. In addition to his batting prowess, his leadership experience has been invaluable in his rise to the captaincy. With his calm demeanor and experience in high-pressure situations, Rahane is expected to be a steady hand at the helm of KKR’s operations in IPL 2025.
Rahane’s Leadership Experience in IPL
Ajinkya Rahane is no stranger to leadership in the IPL. Although he has never captained a side to an IPL title, his experience as a leader stretches back to his time with the Rajasthan Royals and the Rising Pune Giants. Rahane was captain of the Rising Pune Giants in the 2017 season, leading the team in one match. He then took over the captaincy for Rajasthan Royals in 2018, where he led the team for 24 matches. However, during the 2019 season, Rahane was replaced as captain by Steve Smith midway through the campaign.
As a captain, Rahane has seen mixed results, with 9 wins and 16 losses in the 25 matches he has captained. However, his leadership experience will provide invaluable insights as he takes over the reins at KKR, especially as the team looks to build on their success from last season.
KKR’s Confidence in Rahane’s Leadership
KKR’s CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his confidence in Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership abilities following the announcement of his appointment. “We are delighted to have someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who brings his experience and maturity as a leader,” Mysore said. “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.”
Rahane’s leadership style, built on his calm and collected approach, is expected to suit KKR’s squad, which features a mix of experienced internationals and young talents. His ability to manage pressure and make strategic decisions on the field will be crucial as KKR aims to replicate their successful campaign from 2024.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Appointment as Rahane’s Deputy
Venkatesh Iyer, who has become a core player for KKR since his debut, has been appointed as Rahane’s deputy for IPL 2025. The 23-year-old all-rounder has been a standout performer for the franchise, known for his ability to score crucial runs and provide valuable breakthroughs with the ball. Venkatesh’s leadership potential was evident when KKR fought off competition from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to secure his services in the 2025 IPL auction for INR 23.75 Crore, making him one of the highest-priced players in the history of the tournament.
Venkatesh Iyer’s rise in IPL cricket has been remarkable. Signed by KKR for just INR 20 Lakh in 2021, he became an integral part of the squad during the second leg of the season, held in the UAE. His aggressive batting style, which earned him 370 runs in 10 innings that year, helped KKR reach the final. In the 2023 season, Iyer’s blistering century against Mumbai Indians added another feather to his cap, cementing his place as one of the team’s most valuable players.
Iyer’s Leadership Qualities and Role for KKR
Venkatesh Iyer’s appointment as Rahane’s deputy reflects his growing stature in the IPL. With his calm leadership style and a good understanding of the game, Iyer will play a crucial role in supporting Rahane throughout the season. Iyer’s all-round abilities make him an essential member of the team, and his presence as vice-captain will help provide leadership depth for KKR.
Iyer has also shown great maturity on the field, particularly during high-pressure situations, and his ability to perform under pressure will be key for KKR’s title defense. His leadership qualities, combined with his aggressive batting and useful contributions with the ball, make him an invaluable asset for the team.
Rahane and Venkatesh Iyer: A Balanced Leadership Duo
With Rahane as captain and Venkatesh Iyer as his deputy, KKR now boasts a leadership duo with a perfect blend of experience and youthful energy. Rahane’s calm demeanor and vast experience as a leader will balance well with Iyer’s aggressive style and fearless approach to the game. This combination is expected to foster a healthy, dynamic environment within the squad, helping KKR to stay focused on their goal of defending their IPL 2024 title.
Both Rahane and Iyer have experience in handling the pressures of big tournaments, and this will be crucial as KKR embarks on their title defense. Their combined leadership abilities, along with the strength of KKR’s squad, make them a formidable force in IPL 2025.
KKR’s IPL 2025 Campaign: Title Defense Begins Against RCB
Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their title defense with the season opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This highly anticipated match will set the tone for KKR’s IPL 2025 campaign. With Rahane and Venkatesh Iyer leading the charge, KKR will look to start their season with a win and carry forward the momentum from their 2024 triumph.
The opening game against RCB will be an exciting challenge for KKR, as they will be up against one of the strongest teams in the IPL. Rahane’s leadership and Iyer’s all-round abilities will play a key role in ensuring that KKR performs well in this crucial match.
A Fresh Chapter for KKR with Rahane at the Helm
Ajinkya Rahane’s appointment as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the franchise. With his experience, calm leadership style, and recent resurgence in form, Rahane is well-equipped to lead KKR in IPL 2025. Alongside him, Venkatesh Iyer’s leadership qualities and all-round abilities will provide strong support as the team defends their IPL title.
With a balanced squad, experienced leadership, and the hunger to win, KKR will aim to continue their success in IPL 2025. Fans will be eagerly watching as Rahane and Iyer take charge and lead KKR towards another successful season.