The defending champions of IPL, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), named Ajinkya Rahane as captain ahead of the next season of IPL. They have also appointed Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain.
Rahane will be taking over the KKR team from the outgoing winning captain of the team, Shreyas Iyer. He led the KKR to their third IPL title last year before being released by the team. Shreyas Iyer was bought by Punjab Kings for a record bid of INR 26.75 crore in IPL auction 2025. The deputy of Rahane, Venkatesh Iyer, was bought for 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction as well.
“It’s an honor to be asked to lead KKR, which has been one of the most successful franchises in the IPL. I think we have an excellent and balanced squad. I look forward to working with everyone and taking up the challenge of defending our title,” Rahane said after being appointed the captain of KKR.
He was picked up by the KKR in the auction for 1.55 crore. Initially, there were no takers for him as he had an underwhelming season with Chennai Super Kings.
“We are delighted to have someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who brings his experience and maturity as a leader. Also, Venkatesh Iyer has been a franchise player for KKR and brings a lot of leadership qualities. We are confident that they will combine well as we start the defense of our title,” KKR CEO Venky Mysore said.
This will be the second time that Rahane will be playing for KKR. Previously, they bought him before the 2022 season. He didn’t have a great season that year and was released by the team.
Rahane has also previously captained in IPL in the 2017 season for Rising Pune Supergiants. Subsequently, he captained the Rajasthan Royals for 24 matches before being replaced by Steven Smith.