IPL 2025: Ajinkya Rahane Named KKR Captain, Venkatesh Iyer Appointed As Vice-Captain

March 3, 2025: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced their leadership duo for the upcoming 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday, naming Ajinkya Rahane as the captain and Venkatesh Iyer as his deputy. The announcement comes as KKR looks to defend their title in the upcoming season.

Venky Mysore, the CEO of KKR, praised Rahane’s experience and maturity as a leader. “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,” Mysore said in a statement.

Rahane, who has been part of several successful teams in the IPL, expressed his excitement and honor at being appointed as KKR’s captain. “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,” Rahane said.

Venkatesh Iyer, who has been a standout performer for KKR in previous seasons, will assist Rahane as vice-captain. In a recent interview, Iyer shared his thoughts on leadership, stating that while he may not have the formal title of captain, leadership is about setting examples both on and off the field. “Captaincy is just a tag. I believe in leadership. That is a bigger role to play, being a leader,” he said.

Iyer, who has played a crucial role for both KKR and his state team, Madhya Pradesh, emphasized the importance of creating an atmosphere where players, regardless of experience or pay scale, feel comfortable voicing their opinions. “I am not the captain of the MP team, but my opinions are respected, and I really love to be in an atmosphere where every individual has the freedom to voice their opinion and give suggestions,” he added.

The two leaders, Rahane and Iyer, will lead KKR in their opening match of IPL 2025 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 22. With a balanced squad and a strong leadership pairing, KKR will aim to continue their success and mount a serious challenge to defend their IPL crown.