Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for the 2025 IPL season, opting for the experienced batter over all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, who has been appointed vice-captain. CEO Venky Mysore emphasized that Rahane’s leadership qualities and vast experience played a key role in the decision.
KKR’s announcement surprised some fans, as many expected Iyer—an integral part of the franchise since 2021—to be in contention for the role. While Rahane’s leadership credentials are well-established, Mysore explained the rationale behind the decision, highlighting the demands of captaincy in a high-stakes tournament like the IPL.
Why KKR Chose Ajinkya Rahane Over Iyer
As the defending IPL champions, KKR needed a leader capable of handling the pressures of the competition. Mysore underlined why Rahane was the preferred choice over Iyer, who will serve as his deputy.
“IPL is quite an intense tournament. While we rate Venkatesh Iyer highly, captaincy can be taxing on a younger player. We’ve seen challenges arise for others in similar roles. It requires maturity, a steady hand, and experience, qualities Ajinkya brings in abundance,” Mysore told ESPNcricinfo.
Rahane, 36, has accumulated vast experience over 17 IPL seasons since 2008, having played 185 IPL matches and 195 international games. His leadership credentials include captaining India, Mumbai in domestic cricket, and various IPL franchises.
Beyond On-Field Leadership
Mysore pointed out that Rahane’s responsibilities will extend beyond just tactical decisions on the field. His ability to manage the team’s dynamics, handle media expectations, and work closely with the coaching staff was also considered while making the decision.
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“Captaincy isn’t just about on-field decisions. It involves managing diverse personalities, media expectations, and collaborating with coaches. Ajinkya’s two decades of experience, including leading India in 11 games across formats, make him a natural fit.”
Grooming Iyer for the Future
Although KKR had released Iyer ahead of the 2024 mega auction, they brought him back for a significant INR 23.75 crore, indicating their long-term plans for him. While Iyer had expressed interest in a leadership role, KKR decided on a gradual approach to his development.
“Venkatesh is undoubtedly captaincy material. His energy, respect within the group, and proactive approach impress us. But we want him to learn without the burden of immediate responsibility. Ajinkya will take him under his wing, they’ll work closely, ensuring a smooth transition for the future,” Mysore explained.
Backing Rahane’s Form and Leadership
Mysore also backed Rahane’s recent domestic performances and his ability to lead under pressure.
“Ajinkya’s leadership isn’t just about tactics, it’s about unifying the team. In a high-pressure environment, his ability to extract the best from each player will be crucial. Meanwhile, Venkatesh’s development as a deputy ensures our leadership pipeline remains strong,” Mysore concluded.
With Rahane at the helm and Iyer being groomed for the future, KKR has set a clear roadmap for leadership in the seasons to come.
