IPL 2025: KKR CEO Explains Why Ajinkya Rahane Was Chosen As Captain Over Venkatesh Iyer

March 13, 2025: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) CEO Venky Mysore has opened up about the team's decision to appoint Ajinkya Rahane as the captain for the upcoming IPL 2025 season, opting against choosing Venkatesh Iyer, the franchise’s record-signing. The decision came as a surprise to many, given Iyer’s high-profile return to the team after KKR spent a massive Rs 23.75 crore to bring him back during the mega auction.

Mysore explained that while Iyer is highly valued by the team, the management felt that the role of captaincy could be too taxing for the young all-rounder. With the pressures of leading a team in the intense environment of the IPL, the decision was made to appoint the experienced Rahane as captain, with Iyer serving as his deputy.

“IPL is quite an intense tournament. Clearly, we think very well of Venkatesh Iyer, but at the same time, it [captaincy] is taxing on a youngster. We have seen lots of people having challenges with it as they go forward. It takes a very steady hand, takes a lot of maturity and experience, which we felt Ajinkya brings with him,” Mysore told ESPNcricinfo.

Ajinkya Rahane, who returns for his second stint with KKR, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Rahane has led India to eight victories in 11 matches across formats and is among the most successful captains in domestic cricket. In the IPL, he has captained 25 matches across two franchises, including one stint at Rising Pune Supergiant and several years with Rajasthan Royals.

Rahane's vast experience in leadership was a key factor in the decision. “He has played 185 IPL games, 200 international games across formats. He has led India, led Mumbai in domestic cricket, and he has led in the IPL. All that is massive,” Mysore noted.

Mysore further emphasized the multifaceted nature of captaincy in the IPL, which extends beyond on-field tactics to include managing media interactions, building team relationships, and overseeing preparatory sessions like bowlers' and batters' meetings. “We are lucky we have got Ajinkya, who will be terrific for us. Not only as a captain, but also as a batsman. He has scored tons of runs,” he added.

While Rahane is the captain for now, Iyer will continue to be a part of the leadership group and could grow into a future captain. Mysore expressed immense faith in Iyer’s leadership potential, highlighting his respect among teammates and his positive energy in the dressing room. “We have been very, very impressed with the leadership qualities that he has shown. He is definitely captaincy material and one for the future,” Mysore concluded.