Despite being instrumental in Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) recent campaigns, all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer was among several notable players not retained by the IPL 2024 defending champions, joining the ranks of skipper Shreyas Iyer, Mitchell Starc, and Phil Salt.

KKR have made critical retention decisions ahead of the IPL 2025 season, securing the services of key players Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Varun Chakravarthy, Harshit Rana, and Ramandeep Singh. 

Venkatesh Iyer, who debuted for KKR in 2021, quickly became a talk of the town with his exceptional performances. In his debut season, he amassed 370 runs in just 10 matches, contributing significantly to KKR’s journey to the finals. Although he faced a dip in form in 2022, he bounced back, scoring over 400 runs in 2023. 

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‘I would have loved to be on that list’ – Venkatesh Iyer on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) retention list for IPL 2025 

Venkatesh Iyer’s standout 2024 season saw him aggregate 370 runs across 14 matches at a striking average of 46.25 and an explosive strike rate of 158.80, including a vital 52 off 26 balls in the final that sealed the 3rd title for KKR.

Speaking to RevSportz, Iyer lauded the KKR team management for their strong retention strategy. “KKR has had a very good retention. I think they have covered easily 14-16 overs and with the bat, they have almost covered five positions. So, they had a great retention, but I would have loved to be on that list,” he stated.

Admitting to feeling emotional on his omission from the IPL 2025 KKR retention list, Iyer reflected on the deep connection he shares with the team franchise. “KKR have given me a big breakthrough… There’s so much emotion. It kind of makes me teary-eyed that my name is not on the retention list, but I am a practical guy. I understand how it works,” he added.

Still hopeful of being included in the squad, Iyer expressed optimism about rejoining KKR through the IPL 2025 auction. “I would love to be there… If I have a good auction, then I might still end up playing for the team I love the most,” he concluded.

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