Venkatesh Iyer Relieved to Focus on Role Over Price Tag – IPL 2025 !
Venkatesh Iyer intends to prove his merits and contribute in full measure to the team's performance, showing his dedication and professionalism.
IPL 2025: Venkatesh Iyer Focuses on Performance Over Price Tag Pressure
Venkatesh Iyer, a dynamic cricketer from the Kolkata Knight Riders, has played a substantial role in the Indian Premier League since his debut in 2021. His aggressive batting and all-around bowling make him the ultimate asset for the team. Iyer has been given an enlarged role in the IPL 2025 season, taking the mantle of vice-captaincy under newly appointed captain Ajinkya Rahane.
A Leadership Embrace Under High Hopes
During the 2025 IPL auction, Iyer bagged a whopping ₹23.75 crore contract with KKR, validating his exceptional talent and the trust that the franchise repose in him. Iyer spoke candidly on the pressure that would accompany such an astounding price but said that his major focus was on delivering on his end of the bargain on the field. He mentioned, “Obviously, you can’t ignore it altogether. It exists. Wherever I go, I get asked about it. But for me, it’s about absorbing it and still trying to fulfill the responsibility that has been given to me.”
According to Iyer, being a leader is beyond any formal title. It is about showing the way by example, residing inside and outside the field. He has said, “Captaincy is just a tag. I believe in leadership. That is a bigger role to play, being a leader.” This statement exemplifies his determination to see his team succeed, even without a title.
Ajinkya Rahane: A Perfect Synergy
Ajinkya Rahane’s appointment as captain injects vast experience and cool-headedness into the team leadership. Previous captaincy experience from Rahane, especially leading India to a historical Test series win in Australia, gives him the stature in the cricketing world. Rahane stated, “It’s an honour to be asked to lead KKR, which has been one of the most successful franchises in the IPL.”
The synergy between Rahane and Iyer is expected to form the cornerstone for KKR’s strategy aimed to defend their title. Venky Mysore, KKR’s chief executive, expressed confidence in their joint leadership by saying, “We are delighted to have someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who brings his experience and maturity as a leader. Venkatesh Iyer has been a franchise player for KKR ….”
Performance Under Pressure
Iyer’s IPL records give ample testimony to his ability to deliver under pressure. Across 50-plus matches, he amassed 1,326 runs, including 1 century and 11 fifties. His contribution was critical towards KKR winning the title in 2024 with 370 runs scored, which came at an average of 46.25 at a strike rate of more than 158.
Read More: Yashasvi Jaiswal Kicks Rahane’s Kitbag, Leaves Mumbai After Dispute
Relating to the expectations surrounding his price, Iyer continues with a pragmatic view, deciding to focus on the game rather than outside pressures. Whenever the IPL commences, he made clear that the numbers cease to matter; his foremost agenda is to play a part actively in the success of his team.
As KKR begin their title defense at IPL 2025, the dynamic duo of Rahane and Iyer will steer the team forward amidst the challenges. Iyer intends to prove his merits and contribute in full measure to the team’s performance, showing his dedication and professionalism. KKR hopes to replicate and even do better than their previous triumphs in the tournament, with a combination of seasoned leadership and youthful talent.
We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join.
Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.
