Aaron Finch drops truth bomb on KKR's star player ahead of IPL 2026: 'Buy him back at a more reasonable price'

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has made a strong statement about Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, suggesting the franchise should release him ahead of IPL 2026 auction. Speaking to JioStar, Finch said that KKR’s decision to buy Iyer for INR 23.75 crore was “too high” given his performance last season.

Iyer had a poor IPL 2025 season, scoring only 142 runs in 11 matches at an average of 20.29. His performances did not match the heavy price tag he carried. KKR, who finished eighth last season under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy, will look for a major turnaround in IPL 2026 as they rebuild their squad.

Finch says the move will help KKR free up funds

Finch also suggested the same, saying KKR should release the Indian all-rounder before the auction and look to buy him back for a reasonable price. Finch said the move will help KKR free up funds for the upcoming mini-auction, which is scheduled to be held in mid-December.

“Paying 23.75 crore is too high for a player like Venkatesh Iyer, who has been used out of position as a middle-order batter without utilising his bowling. While Venkatesh Iyer has been a match-winner for KKR, being their top scorer in 2021 and helping them lift the trophy in 2024, his inconsistent role and high price tag don’t align. KKR should consider releasing him to free up funds and potentially buy him back at a more reasonable price that matches his current role in the team.”

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Meanwhile, reports suggest that KKR have held talks with Delhi Capitals (DC) over a possible move to bring KL Rahul as their new captain, replacing Rahane. However, the discussions have reportedly stalled, as KKR are unwilling to part ways with any of their key players to complete the trade.

The Capitals reportedly wanted either Harshit Rana and Angkrish Raghuvanshi or Rinku Singh and Raghuvanshi in exchange for Rahul. But KKR didn’t agree to these proposals, which have halted the talks. KKR also have a new coach for IPL 2026 with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar taking over.