Who Will Lead KKR In IPL 2025: Rahane or Venkatesh Iyer?

KKR Captaincy Gamble Who Will Lead the Franchise in IPL 2025?

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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been facing uncertainty, as they released their title-winning captain ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Iyer, who had led KKR to their third IPL trophy, joined Punjab Kings, leaving KKR without a captain to lead them. Let’s look at Who Will Lead KKR In IPL 2025.

The amount required for Venkatesh Iyer’s signature, it seemed as if he was going to lead the team without any second thoughts. But, Ajinkya Rahane who was signed for a bargain price can also be the frontrunner to lead the team. This has sparked an online debate over whether Ajinkya Rahane or Venkatesh Iyer should lead KKR in IPL 2025.

Rahane’s IPL Experience

Ajinkya Rahane, 36, has experience in captaincy in both IPL and domestic cricket. But, appointing a skipper at this stage of his career may not be the long-term solution that KKR is striving for.

Rahane has previously led Rajasthan Royals in 2018 and 2019 and is currently Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy captain. According to reports, KKR is leaning towards him as the new captain. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer, a high-profile signing by KKR, was being seen as the potential captain of the franchise.

Power Hitter Iyer

While Ajinkya Rahane has had a strong 2023 IPL season with a strike rate of 172.49, his overall IPL record is underlying. In 185 matches, he has 4642 runs at a strike rate of 123.42. Given KKR’s priority of power-hitters, Rahane’s style may not sit right with their approach. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer has been playing a key role for KKR, he has always delivered consistently with the bat and contributed as a bowler.

With 1,326 runs in 50 IPL matches, his flexibility has been valuable. Venkatesh, who has also led in Nitish Rana’s absence, expressed his willingness to take on the captaincy if given the chance. With KKR considering Ajinkya Rahane as the full-time captain for IPL 2025, Venkatesh Iyer could take on the vice-captain role. This lineup would allow Rahane to mentor Venkatesh, grooming him for a future leadership role within the franchise.

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