The reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), have named veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for the 2025 season. The announcement came at 3:33 PM on March 3 (3/3), symbolizing the franchise’s three IPL title wins.
Rahane, 36, takes over from Shreyas Iyer, who guided KKR to the championship in 2024. He was signed for ₹1.5 crore in the 2025 mega auction. Meanwhile, KKR’s most expensive acquisition, Venkatesh Iyer, who was bought for ₹23.75 crore, has been appointed vice-captain.
This won’t be Rahane’s first experience leading an IPL team. The Mumbai cricketer previously captained Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants in 25 matches between 2017 and 2019, securing nine wins and suffering 16 losses.
Under his leadership, Rajasthan made the IPL 2018 playoffs but were eliminated by KKR in the Eliminator. As for his batting record, Rahane has featured in 185 IPL matches, amassing 4,642 runs at an average of 30.14 and a strike rate of 123.42. His tally includes 30 half-centuries and two centuries.
“A Huge Honor” – Ajinkya Rahane reacts to being named KKR captain for IPL 2025
After being named Kolkata Knight Riders’ captain for the 2025 IPL season, Ajinkya Rahane expressed his enthusiasm and pride. The newly appointed skipper highlighted the team’s strength and conveyed his eagerness to embrace the challenge of retaining their title.
He stated (via KKR.in):
“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.”
Meanwhile, KKR CEO Venky Mysore stated:
“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.”
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