In a blockbuster move at the IPL 2025 Auction, the KKR re-signed Venkatesh Iyer for ₹23.75 crore. It was the third-highest price of the auction. The all-rounder, key to KKR’s IPL 2024 title, returns after a bidding war.
The bidding war for Iyer saw KKR and RCB go head-to-head. However, once the price crossed the ₹23.5 crore mark, RCB backed out, allowing KKR to reclaim their star player.
Why KKR Splashed Big for Venkatesh Iyer
Iyer has been a cornerstone of KKR’s success over the last few seasons, contributing both with the bat and ball. The left-handed all-rounder is known for his flexibility. He can bat anywhere and bowl medium pace when needed. He has an impressive record.
- IPL Matches Played: 51
- Runs Scored: 1,326
- Strike Rate:137.13
- IPL Wickets: 3
KKR had retained six players before the auction. But, they had exhausted their Right-to-Match (RTM) options. So, they had to spend big to bring back Iyer. His return ensures KKR retains the core of their championship-winning side.
Venkatesh Iyer’s IPL Journey
Breakout Season (2021)
Iyer made his IPL debut in 2021 with KKR and quickly established himself as a match-winner. In 10 matches that season, he scored over 350 runs. His efforts helped Kolkata reach the final, but they lost to the Chennai Super Kings.
Consistency Across Seasons
In the next four seasons, Iyer became a dependable player for KKR. In 51 matches, he has scored 1,326 runs. This shows his aggressive but consistent batting style. His strike rate of 137.13 highlights his ability to accelerate at crucial moments.
Record-Making Century (2023)
In the 2023 IPL, Iyer became only the second KKR batter, after Brendon McCullum, to score an IPL century. The innings cemented his place among the elite players in the league.
Key Role in IPL 2024 Victory
Iyer was instrumental in KKR’s IPL 2024 title triumph. In the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he scored 52 not out. His knock won the match and led his team to a big win while chasing a target of 114 runs in Chennai.
