Ajinkya Rahane Backs Venkatesh Iyer : In the high-pressure environment of IPL 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane has come forward in full support of out-of-form all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, despite the player’s ongoing struggles with the bat. Iyer, who was KKR’s most expensive buy this season at ₹23.75 crore, has not lived up to expectations, scoring just 142 runs across 10 matches at a strike rate of 139.22.
Despite mounting criticism, Rahane isn’t losing faith.
“We are completely backing Venkatesh Iyer. He is just one innings away,” Rahane stated during a Star Sports press conference.
Ajinkya Rahane Backs Venkatesh Iyer : Ajinkya Rahane Publicly Backs Venkatesh Iyer Despite Underwhelming IPL 2025 Season
Venkatesh Iyer’s Form: A Cause for Concern
Heading into the season, much was expected from Venkatesh Iyer, especially after his explosive performances in previous editions of the IPL. In 2024, he averaged 46.25 and struck at nearly 159, making him one of the most bankable assets in the league.
But 2025 has told a different story.
- Runs Scored: 142 in 10 matches
- Average: 20.29
- Strike Rate: 139.22
- 50+ Scores: Just one
Ajinkya Rahane Backs Venkatesh Iyer : Ajinkya Rahane Publicly Backs Venkatesh Iyer Despite Underwhelming IPL 2025 Season
While these numbers don’t justify his price tag, Iyer has shown flashes of brilliance that hint at his potential to bounce back.
Rahane’s Leadership: Sticking with His Man
Ajinkya Rahane’s decision to stand by Iyer comes at a time when KKR is under pressure, sitting seventh on the points table with four wins, five losses, and one no result.
“He is trying his best, and has done well for the franchise in the past. It’s important from a management and leadership perspective that we back him,” Rahane added.
Rahane emphasized the unseen grind behind the scenes — highlighting Iyer’s hard work in training and maintaining faith in his ability to turn things around in the final stretch of the season.
What Lies Ahead for KKR and Iyer?
With four crucial games remaining, Rahane predicts that Iyer will come good — a sentiment rooted in both belief and desperation. KKR’s playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, and a return to form for Iyer could be a game-changer.
Their next challenge? A high-stakes clash against the Rajasthan Royals on May 4th at Eden Gardens.
While stats and critics may say otherwise, KKR’s captain is backing belief over numbers — a move that could either revive Iyer’s season or add more questions to KKR’s high-stakes investment. One thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on Venkatesh Iyer in the games to come.
FAQs
Venkatesh Iyer has underperformed this season, scoring only 142 runs in 10 matches despite being KKR’s most expensive player.
KKR bought Venkatesh Iyer for ₹23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction.
Read more : Venkatesh Iyer: Did KKR Invest in the Wrong Iyer? Fans Slam KKR for Letting Go of Shreyas in IPL 2025
