IPL 2025: 3 Reasons Why KKR Should Not Retain Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer led KKR to IPL 2024 title (X)Shreyas Iyer led KKR to IPL 2024 title (X)

After a decade-long drought, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) finally reclaimed the IPL trophy in 2024 under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer. While the title win was historic, the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction is set to cause a massive shake-up across all franchises.

With Iyer being the face of KKR’s title run, many would argue that the skipper should continue leading the side. However, a deeper analysis suggests that it may be time for KKR to part ways with Iyer and explore other options.

Here are three key reasons why KKR should not retain Shreyas Iyer ahead of IPL 2025.

3. Lack of T20 Mentality

Despite nearly a decade in the IPL, Shreyas Iyer has failed to fully adapt to the fast-paced demands of T20 cricket. His strike rate of 127.48 in 115 IPL matches is below par, especially considering that he has consistently batted in the top order.

In a format that thrives on aggressive intent and explosive batting, Iyer has often been more of an anchor than a game-changer. While anchoring an innings has its place, especially in longer formats, T20 cricket often requires players to hit the ground running, something Iyer has struggled with.

Moreover Shreyas Iyer, who seems like a square peg in a round hole has, not been a regular match-winner for his team with the bat. The franchise needs a captain who can lead from the front with explosive performances, and Iyer’s conservative approach at the crease could be a roadblock for KKR’s ambitions to defend their title.

2. High Market Value

Retaining Shreyas Iyer at his current price of INR 12.25 crore might not be the smartest financial move for KKR. As the mega auction looms, KKR will be carefully evaluating how to best allocate their resources to build a title-winning squad.

Iyer, who missed the IPL in 2023 due to injury, hasn’t fully justified his hefty price tag, and KKR may be better off investing that money elsewhere to strengthen the team. With Iyer’s market value in question, given his inconsistent form and injury history, KKR might choose to release him back into the auction pool.

By doing so, they could potentially re-sign him at a lower price or opt for a more impactful player. Retaining Iyer at a premium price could leave KKR with limited options during the auction. A strategic decision to part ways could offer KKR greater flexibility and allow them to get more bang for their buck.

1. Poor Batting Form

While leading KKR to a title is a significant achievement, Shreyas Iyer’s own performance with the bat left much to be desired. He managed just 351 runs in 14 matches at an average of 39.00, with only two fifties to his name. These numbers, while respectable, pale in comparison to what is expected from a captain in the IPL.

Iyer’s struggles haven’t been confined to the IPL alone. His form for India and in domestic cricket has also been inconsistent, raising concerns about whether he can deliver the kind of match-winning performances that KKR will need moving forward.

T20 cricket, particularly in the IPL, is as much about individual brilliance as it is about leadership. Iyer’s ability to steady the ship is valuable, but KKR might now require a captain who can lead from the front with aggressive and consistent batting displays.

Time to Turn a New Leaf

While Shreyas Iyer's leadership in 2024 was critical in securing KKR’s third IPL title, the cold, hard truth is that cricket is a results-driven game, and T20 cricket demands a particular brand of aggression and consistency.

Iyer’s lack of T20 mentality, his price tag, and his poor batting form all combine to make a strong case for KKR to consider moving on. As they look to build a squad capable of defending their title, it might just be time to let go of the old and embrace the new.