 "Ajinkya Rahane was bought by KKR for Rs 1.5 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Image: KKR")
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Monday announced Ajinkya Rahane as captain and Venkatesh Iyer as vice captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Rahane, who had earlier played for KKR in 2022, was bought by the franchise for Rs 1.5 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction .
KKR’s most expensive buy was Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 23.75 crore and there were speculations that the all-rounder could be made the captain of the side, but Rahane has been given that duty.
Rahane: ‘Honour to be asked to lead KKR’
“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,” Venky Mysore, CEO of KKR said.
On becoming KKR captain, 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 won the IPL 2024 title under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy but the India batter was released before the auction.
KKR will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign with the season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Gardens on Saturday, 22 March.