Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for IPL 2025, prioritizing experience over youth in their leadership decision.
While Venkatesh Iyer was considered for the role, KKR CEO Venky Mysore revealed that the management felt captaincy in a high-intensity tournament like the IPL could be overwhelming for a younger player.
“The IPL is an intense tournament. We think very highly of Venkatesh Iyer, but at the same time, captaincy can be taxing on a youngster. We’ve seen many players struggle with it,” Mysore told ESPNcricinfo.
Rahane’s Experience Gives Him the Edge
With his previous IPL captaincy experience and calm approach, Rahane was seen as the right fit for the role.
“It takes a steady hand, maturity, and experience, which we felt Ajinkya brings to the team,” Mysore added.
Rahane has led India in Test cricket and captained in 25 IPL matches across two franchises – Rising Pune Supergiants and Rajasthan Royals. He also guided Mumbai to the Ranji Trophy semi-finals this season, scoring 467 runs, including a century.
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KKR’s Captaincy Shuffle
Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to their third IPL title in 2024, was released ahead of the 2025 mega auction. He was later snapped up by Punjab Kings for INR 26.75 crore, making him the second-most expensive player in IPL history.
Meanwhile, KKR made a massive financial commitment to retain Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore, yet decided to hand the captaincy to Rahane.
Rahane’s Return to KKR
Rahane initially went unsold in the first round of the IPL 2025 auction. However, when franchises were allowed to recall specific unsold players, KKR picked him up for his base price of ₹1.5 crore, marking his return after previously playing for the team in IPL 2022.
A veteran of the league, Rahane has played for six different franchises since making his IPL debut in 2008. His leadership skills and composure will be crucial as KKR aims for another successful season.
