IPL Retention 2025: KKR To Release Iyer And Russell; Who Will Be Their Captain?
![Iyer might not be retained by KKR [Source: @KnightsVibe/X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1730193272226_Iyer_IPL.jpg?im=Resize=(650,450))
Iyer might not be retained by KKR [Source: @KnightsVibe/X]
According to emerging reports, Kolkata Knight Riders won't likely retain some of their core players before the IPL 2025 mega auction. The defending champions might even release their skipper Shreyas Iyer into the auction pool.
Led by Shreyas Iyer, the Knight Riders enjoyed stellar success in the 2024 season of the tournament, clinching their third IPL title. The skipper had an impressive season with the bat, amassing 351 runs at an average of 39 and a strike rate of 146.86. So, considering his recent batting and captaincy exploits, Iyer's potential release has sparked debates and discussions.
Among other players, swashbuckling finisher Andre Russell might also find him in the auction pool, with the franchise deciding against his retention. In such a scenario, KKR will be short of two of their most able leadership candidates and might search for a new skipper heading into the auction.
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Will Shreyas Iyer Be Brought Back By KKR?
As per the IPL governing council's latest guidelines, the franchises can retain a maximum of six players. However, considering the whopping budget of retained players, the Knight Riders might release Iyer and repurchase him at a lower amount using the Right To Match (RTM) card in the mega auction. So, if Iyer returns, he will once again lead the franchise.
What If KKR Permanently Moves On From Iyer?
However, if the Knight Riders don't bring Iyer back, they might buy another captaincy material in the mega auction. In that case, they could consider bidding for KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, provided these two players are released or available to be traded. In another strategic move, KKR could trust Rinku Singh and make him the face of their franchise by handing him leadership duties.
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