Explained: Why haven’t KKR named their captain for IPL 2025 so far?

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the reigning IPL champions, are yet to announce their new captain for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 following Shreyas Iyer’s departure to Punjab Kings (PBKS). As KKR prepares to defend their title, the franchise faces a crucial leadership decision. With two months left until the tournament, the management must appoint a captain who can continue their championship-winning momentum and lead the side with confidence.

Meanwhile, with the recent appointment of Rajat Patidar as Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) captain, eight out of ten teams have confirmed their captains for IPL 2025. Apart from KKR, Delhi Capitals (DC) are the only other franchise yet to make an official announcement regarding their leadership.

IPL 2025 Captains confirmed so far

While Delhi Capitals (DC) are expected to appoint Axar Patel as new captain, KKR are yet to finalize a successor to Shreyas Iyer, who was traded to Punjab Kings.

KKR’s IPL 2025 fixtures and opening match

As per IPL tradition, the defending champions will open their campaign at home. The Eden Gardens in Kolkata will witness a high-voltage season opener as KKR takes on RCB on March 22. This will also mark the first game for RCB’s new captain, Rajat Patidar, as he takes charge of the franchise.

KKR’s fixtures in IPL 2025

• March 22 – vs RCB (Eden Gardens, Kolkata)
• March 26 – vs Rajasthan Royals (Guwahati)
• March 31 – vs Mumbai Indians (Mumbai)
• April 3 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Kolkata)
• April 6 – vs Lucknow Super Giants (Kolkata)
• April 11 – vs Chennai Super Kings (Chennai)
• April 15 – vs Punjab Kings (New Chandigarh)
• April 21 – vs Gujarat Titans (Kolkata)
• April 26 – vs Punjab Kings (Kolkata)
• April 29 – vs Delhi Capitals (Delhi)
• May 10 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Hyderabad)
• May 17 – vs RCB (Bengaluru)

With a tough set of fixtures, KKR will need a strong leader to take charge and guide them through the season.

Who will Be KKR’s next captain?

Following Shreyas Iyer’s departure, KKR has two primary contenders for the leadership role – Venkatesh Iyer and Rinku Singh.

1. Venkatesh Iyer – KKR’s Costliest Buy at IPL 2025 Auction

• Bought for INR 23.75 crore, making him the third-most expensive player in IPL 2025
• Served as vice-captain in IPL 2023 when Nitish Rana was injured
• IPL Career Stats: 50 matches, 1,326 runs, average 31.57, strike rate 137.13

Why he could be captain?

KKR made a massive investment in Venkatesh at the IPL 2025 mega auction, signaling their long-term vision for him. His previous leadership experience within the squad, along with his consistent batting performances, makes him a strong contender for the role.

Also READ: Is Venkatesh Iyer ready to captain KKR? The all-rounder responds

2. Rinku Singh – KKR’s Finishing Specialist and Fan Favorite

• With KKR since past few years, proving loyalty and consistency
• IPL Career Stats: 45 matches, 893 runs, strike rate 143.34
• Key Performer in IPL 2023: Scored 474 runs, becoming KKR’s most dependable middle-order batter

Why he could be captain?

Rinku has been KKR’s backbone in the middle order, consistently finishing games under pressure. His calm temperament, aggression, and match-winning ability make him an ideal leader to inspire the team in high-pressure situations.

What are KKR’s other captaincy options?

While Venkatesh and Rinku appear to be the top two contenders, KKR could consider other options, including:

• Ajinkya Rahane – Previously part of KKR in 2022 and also have a captaincy experience.
• An Overseas Captain? – KKR has historically preferred Indian captains, but they could explore an experienced overseas leader if needed. : Andre Russell – A KKR veteran and match-winner, but fitness concerns might rule him out.

Why KKR haven’t announced their captain yet for IPL 2025

With the season set to begin on March 22, the delay in KKR’s captaincy announcement has sparked speculation. One possible reason for the delay is the busy Indian domestic schedule, which has occupied the frontrunners for the captaincy role over the last few months.

1. Domestic commitments have kept key players busy

At the time of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction in late November, several of KKR’s potential captaincy candidates were actively playing in India’s domestic season. This includes:

• Venkatesh (KKR’s likely captaincy frontrunner) was competing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) for Madhya Pradesh, who reached the final but lost to Mumbai.
• Rinku, another strong contender, has been switching between domestic and international duties, making him unavailable for extended team discussions.
• Rahane, another experienced name linked to KKR’s captaincy, has been actively involved in Ranji Trophy cricket for Mumbai, keeping him occupied.

The Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, which began in January, is set to conclude on February 26, meaning most of India’s domestic players have been unavailable for extensive IPL-related discussions.

2. KKR may be waiting for clarity on injuries & player availability

• KKR have a history of injuries to key players, and they may be waiting for updates on the fitness of players like Russell, Sunil Narine and others before finalizing a captain.
• If KKR opts for an overseas captain, they need clarity on availability since some players may miss matches due to international commitments.

3. KKR could be assessing leadership options carefully

KKR may be taking their time to ensure they pick the right leader who aligns with their long-term vision.

• If they trust youth, they could go with Venkatesh due to his leadership experience and massive auction price.
• If they want someone experienced, they might consider Rahane, though his T20 credentials aren’t as strong.
• If they want a dressing-room leader, Rinku could be their choice given his match-winning ability and strong bond with the team.

Also READ: Not Ajinkya Rahane! Aakash Chopra predict the potential captain of KKR in IPL 2025