As the IPL 2025 season kicks off, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer shared some heartfelt insights about his journey with the team, his bond with team owner Shah Rukh Khan, and the pressures that come with his hefty price tag of Rs 23.75 crores. Iyer, who has been an integral part of KKR since his debut in 2021, will play a crucial role in the team’s quest to defend their IPL title this season. The team’s first match is a highly-anticipated clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a rivalry that dates back to the inaugural season in 2008.
Venkatesh Iyer was bought back by KKR for a whopping Rs 23.75 crores during the IPL 2025 auction, a life-changing moment for the all-rounder. Reflecting on the pressure that comes with such a significant price tag, Iyer admitted that while it did bring a sense of responsibility, once the game began, it was all about focusing on the performance. “The IPL 2025 auction was a life-changing moment for me. The middle-class guy in me was very happy with the money! However, as the bidding war between KKR and RCB escalated, it brought a mix of emotions,” he said. He further explained, “If I say there is no pressure, I would be lying. Of course, there is pressure. And there has to be pressure. But once the match starts, none of it matters. Whether I am a Rs 20 lakh player or a Rs 20 crore player, my job remains the same.”
When it comes to his relationship with KKR’s team owner, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, Iyer opened up about the special connection they share. He described Shah Rukh Khan as not just a franchise owner but as an “elder brother” who always makes him feel supported. “More than a franchise owner, he gives off an elder brother vibe. He makes you feel like he is always there for you,” Iyer shared. “He is so down to earth. When you meet him, you feel like you want to do something special for him. You feel like, ‘No, I want to do something for this man. I want to do something special for Shah Rukh bhai.’”
Speaking about KKR’s iconic home ground, Eden Gardens, Iyer described the experience of playing there as unparalleled. “To step onto the field at Eden Gardens, which is like a temple for me, and see thousands of fans cheering for you and your team—there’s no greater feeling for a cricketer,” Iyer said. “It feels like 70-80,000 people are behind you, supporting you with every action you take. That energy brings out the best in you.”
Iyer has been a consistent performer for KKR, especially in the IPL 2021 season, where he scored 370 runs in 10 matches at an average of 41.11, with four half-centuries. His stellar performances earned him a spot in the Indian team, making his debut in November 2021. In IPL 2024, during KKR’s title-winning season, Iyer played a key role, scoring 370 runs in 13 innings with an average of 46.25 and a strike rate of 158.79, including four half-centuries. His contributions in the playoffs, especially his 70-run knock in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad, were crucial in KKR’s success.
With the IPL 2025 season underway, Venkatesh Iyer is looking to build on his remarkable performances and help KKR defend their title, while carrying the support of his teammates, fans, and the inspiration provided by the team’s owner, Shah Rukh Khan.
As KKR gears up to defend their IPL title in 2025, Venkatesh Iyer’s form and his bond with Shah Rukh Khan could play a crucial role in their success. For more updates on KKR’s IPL journey and expert betting tips, follow Cricket Betting Tips.
