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'Pressure Is Always...,' Rs 23.75 Cr Worth Venkatesh Iyer Shrugs Weight Of IPL 2025 Price Tag

Akshita Patel

Venkatesh Iyer opens up on price tag weight ahead of IPL 2025 [Source: @KKRiders/X.com]Venkatesh Iyer opens up on price tag weight ahead of IPL 2025 [Source: @KKRiders/X.com]

KKR vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer has dismissed concerns of price tag pressure ahead of IPL 2025, saying pressure to perform is always there. Iyer was picked for INR 23.75 crore during the mega auction, becoming KKR’s highest-paid player.

The IPL 2025 mega auction made some cricketers wealthy as franchises poured money on marquee players. Rishabh Pant became the costliest pick in IPL auction history, getting picked by LSG for INR 27 crore.

Meanwhile, one surprising pick was Venkatesh Iyer as KKR cashed out an enormous sum of INR 23.75 crore to bring him back into the fold.

Venkatesh Iyer Breaks Silence On Weight Of Price-Tag 

Venkatesh Iyer, one of the most expensive buys in IPL history, has dismissed apprehensions regarding his whopping INR 23.75 crore price, stating he is only interested in delivering for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025.

"But when the IPL will start, it really doesn't matter. You are a part of a playing XI. You are a part of a team that is going out there to win. It really doesn't matter for what price you were picked or what is expected out of you. If you are taking the field for a side, you will be expected to do well," Iyer told media.

The 30-year-old all-rounder, who was let go by KKR ahead of the mega auction, was purchased back at a record price, making him one of the season's biggest talking points.

However, Iyer remains unbothered by the expectations that come with such a hefty sum. 

"It's about how you carry yourself on to the field. And are you able to fulfil the responsibility that has been given to you? And see, again, pressure is always there, irrespective. If not the price tag, it will be something else," he added.

Iyer has been appointed vice-captain for the IPL 2025 season while Ajinkya Rahane has been entrusted with the responsibility of captaincy for the reigning champions.

Why Venkatesh Iyer Was Overlooked For KKR Captaincy?

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) choice of Ajinkya Rahane as captain for IPL 2025 caused a few eyebrows to be raised, particularly considering Venkatesh Iyer's loyalty and contribution since 2021. 

However, KKR CEO Venky Mysore has clarified the franchise’s reasoning, citing the IPL’s intensity and the need for experience in leadership.

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Mysore explained that while KKR rates Iyer highly, the pressures of captaincy could be overwhelming for a younger player. 

Rahane, a veteran of 185 IPL matches and 195 international appearances, has captained India, and Mumbai in domestic cricket, and various IPL franchises.