Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are in a dilemma after failing to secure Shreyas Iyer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction. Venkatesh Iyer, who was their top buy at INR 23.5 crore, was considered for captaincy.

After splurging hefty money on him during the mega auction, it was expected that KKR would appoint Venakesh Iyer as the skipper of the side for the 2025 IPL season. However, in a surprise move, the Kolkata-based franchise is set to appoint an experienced player as the skipper.

Venkatesh Iyer was tipped to become the Kolkata Knight Riders captain in IPL 2025 after the India all-rounder was bought for a staggering ₹23.75 crore in the mega auction.

The 36-year-old batter, who was bought by KKR at his base price of INR 1.5 crore in the recent auction, is set to take on the leadership role following the departure of Shreyas Iyer.

KKR made several shocking calls in the lead-up to the mega auction by not retaining the two Iyers, including their captain Shreyas, who will now play for Punjab Kings from IPL 2025 onwards.

IPL defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders will be led by a new captain next season after they released Shreyas Iyer.

Ajinkya Rahane is likely set to captain Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025 after being bought for Rs 1.5 crore at the auction. Despite being dropped as Mumbai's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy captain, Rahane's leadership experience is highly regarded,