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Ajinkya Rahane will lead Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, replacing Shreyas Iyer. Venkatesh Iyer will be his deputy.
Venkatesh Iyer (L) and Ajinkya Rahane.
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have announced that Ajinkya Rahane will lead the franchise in IPL 2025. He’ll be the eighth captain of the franchise, replacing Shreyas Iyer, who was released after leading the team to its third title last year. All-rounder Venkatesh Iyer will be Rahane’s deputy.
KKR signed Rahane for his base price of Rs. 1.5 crore. This is the Mumbaikar’s second stint in a KKR shirt after he spent one year in Kolkata in 2022.
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.”
KKR will begin their IPL 2025 campaign with the season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 22.
More to follow…
