Venkatesh Iyer, the allrounder for India and Madhya Pradesh, is eager to captain Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) if offered the role. KKR, set to play their first IPL 2025 match on March 22 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has yet to appoint a new captain after releasing Shreyas Iyer. Though Venkatesh has no prior captaincy experience, he believes in leadership and is ready to take on the challenge. He has made significant contributions to KKR since his debut in 2021, amassing 1326 runs in 51 matches. Iyer appreciates KKR’s decision to allow players to focus on the domestic season before finalizing the captaincy.
While KKR has not publicly announced their new captain, Iyer, who returned for a record price of INR 23.75 crore (approximately US$ 2.83 million), is reportedly a strong candidate alongside former India captain Ajinkya Rahane.
Though Iyer, aged 30, has not captained in competitive cricket before, he is keen to embrace the experience. “Definitely. Definitely, I’m ready,” he mentioned in a recent conversation with ESPNcricinfo. “I’ve always said that captaincy is just a label. True leadership is what matters more; that’s a more significant role to fulfill.”
“One does not need to hold the title of captain to exhibit leadership within the team. It’s about setting standards. Being a good role model, both on and off the field, is what I am striving for within MP. While I’m not the captain of the MP team, my perspectives are valued, and I thrive in environments where everyone—whether they are newcomers or veterans, regardless of their stature—has the freedom to express their views. Opinions and suggestions should be welcomed and taken positively.”
“I’ve always aimed to be that kind of person. If the captaincy opportunity arises, I would absolutely want to take it. There’s no doubt about it; I would certainly embrace that role if it comes my way.”
Iyer made his IPL debut in 2021 and played a crucial role in revitalizing KKR’s season. They started with four losses in six matches but remarkably bounced back, securing seven wins in nine matches to reach the final. Iyer’s promotion to the top of the order contributed to this turnaround, although his role has since evolved. He moved to the No. 3 spot (and lower) last season and has also provided assistance with the ball as needed. Altogether, Iyer has scored 1326 runs in 51 matches for KKR, boasting a strike rate of 137. This is the only franchise he has represented.
A possible reason KKR has yet to declare their captain for IPL 2025 may be the hectic Indian domestic cricket calendar. During the mega auction in late November, Iyer was among several KKR players participating in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where Madhya Pradesh reached the finals but lost to Mumbai. The second phase of the Ranji Trophy followed, culminating in the final on February 26.
Iyer mentioned that he appreciates KKR’s decision to give players space during the domestic season. “It’s commendable that they’re allowing players their space and focus on domestic cricket. Whenever the captaincy matter comes up, we will address it then.”
The complete Venkatesh Iyer interview will be released ahead of IPL 2025.