Ajinkya Rahane Named Kolkata Knight Riders Captain for IPL 2025, Venkatesh Iyer as Vice-Captain

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the defending champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), have announced Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for the 2025 season. Venkatesh Iyer has been appointed as the vice-captain, marking a new leadership era for the franchise.

Rahane was acquired by KKR at the IPL 2025 mega auction for his base price of ?1.5 crore. On the other hand, Iyer, who was initially released by the team, was brought back for a staggering ?23.75 crore, making him the third most expensive player in the auction.

KKR to Face RCB in Season Opener

By virtue of their title-winning campaign in 2024, KKR will host the IPL 2025 season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on March 22. KKR clinched their third IPL trophy last year after defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final.

Shreyas Iyer Departs, Joins Punjab Kings

Ajinkya Rahane replaces Shreyas Iyer, who captained KKR to their 2024 triumph but was not retained by the franchise ahead of the auction. Shreyas has now been appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025.

Delhi Capitals Yet to Announce Captain

With KKR confirming their captaincy choices, Delhi Capitals (DC) remain the only team yet to name their leader for the upcoming season. Rishabh Pant, who led DC last year, was not retained and will now captain Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025.

KKR fans will be eager to see how the experienced Rahane leads the team as they aim for back-to-back IPL titles.