Venkatesh Iyer all Set to Lead KKR in IPL 2025?

Ahead of the IPL 2025 season, Venkatesh Iyer has expressed readiness to lead Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) if given the opportunity. Despite lacking prior captaincy experience in competitive cricket, Iyer emphasized that leadership goes beyond the title, focusing on setting examples and being a role model both on and off the field. He highlighted how his opinions are valued within the Madhya Pradesh team, even without an official leadership role.

KKR, the reigning champions, are yet to announce their captain after Shreyas Iyer, who led them to the IPL 2024 title, was acquired by Punjab Kings and appointed as their skipper. Venkatesh, who joined KKR in 2021, was released before the 2024 auction but bought back for ₹23.75 crore after an intense bidding war with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In his IPL career so far, he has amassed 1,326 runs in 51 matches, all for KKR.

Meanwhile, the Champions Trophy 2025 continues with Afghanistan facing England in a crucial Group B match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on February 26. Both teams, having lost their opening games, are in a must-win situation. England, further weakened by Brydon Carse’s injury, have named Rehan Ahmed as his replacement.