Venkatesh Iyer sold for 23.75 Cr (Source: @@Johns/X.com)
The IPL auction is always a highly anticipated event, where franchises aim to assemble their strongest squad for the upcoming season. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) known for their dynamic and unpredictable approach made headlines in the recent auction for IPL 2025. The franchise has often been known to make bold moves, whether it’s splashing big money on a promising player or going for an under-the-radar pick that surprises everyone. However, this year, the high bids on certain players raised eyebrows.
When teams spend significant sums on players, especially when they are perceived to be overvalued. KKR’s decision to go big on certain players have been a topic of discussion after the end of IPL 2025 mega auction.
In this article, let's focus on three players that have been the worst buys for the franchise for the upcoming season.
Venkatesh Iyer (INR 23.75 crore)
- Venkatesh Iyer’s sale to KKR for INR 23.75 crore has certainly generated a significant amount of debate. On paper, it’s a steep price for a player whose international experience, particularly in T20I cricket, is limited.
- KKR could have used such a big amount to purchase other players and effectively use the amount by spreading it across multiple players. If KKR would have done this it would have possibly acquire a more well-rounded squad with better balance. If Iyer doesn’t live up to expectations, KKR may find themselves short in other critical areas.
Umran Malik (INR 75 Lakh)
- Speedster Umran Malik was acquired by IPL 2024 winners Kolkata Knight Riders for his base price of INR 75 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction. He has faced several injuries in the past and has been sidelined from cricket for a long time. This could be another reason why KKR should have considered their decision to spend even 75 Lakh on a injury prone player.
- It is important to mention that this pick for KKR has made headlines as Umran Malik has been a player who has failed to maintain consistency. Whether Umran Malik can give his 100% is a topic of concern.
Luvnith Sisodia (INR 30 Lakh)
- KKR has picked Luvnith Sisodia for INR 30 lakh, which could be another worst buy for the franchise in IPL 2025. The Karnataka player has yet to impress much, as he has an average record in T20s. He has scored just 124 runs in 15 matches with an average of 13.77 and a strike rate of 127.83.
- Sisodia is also not a tested player on a big stage, so if allowed to play on a larger platform like IPL, he would likely fail to perform as he lacks experience. Luvnith Sisodia must perform at a critical stage and prove his worth in IPL 2025.