Venkatesh Iyer praises Ajinkya Rahane's leadership ahead of IPL 2025
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vice-captain, Venkatesh Iyer, has said he is excited to play under the captaincy of Ajinkya Rahane in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
With Shreyas Iyer moving to Punjab Kings (PBKS), Rahane has taken the reins of KKR.
Venkatesh said Rahane's impact is already being felt in the squad.
"So far, he has been an amazing leader of the group," Venkatesh said in a recent interview with ANI.
Leadership qualities
Venkatesh commends Rahane's experience and calmness
Venkatesh hailed Rahane's wealth of experience, having led India in all formats and several IPL franchises.
He said that Rahane has a "great head on his shoulders, remains composed under pressure, and has been a stalwart of the game."
The vice-captain also said that he was excited to learn from Rahane's leadership style this season.
New responsibilities
Venkatesh reflects on his new role as vice-captain
Venkatesh, who has been a part of KKR for quite some time now, now takes on the vice-captaincy role.
When asked if he prepared for this additional responsibility, he said there was no preparation as such because he has always carried himself as a leader.
He said it's all about mindset and accepting the role and being ready to take the responsibility.
Rahane
Rahane excited to lead KKR in IPL 2025
Recently, Rahane said he is excited to lead KKR in the upcoming IPL 2025 season. The veteran cricketer, who returned to KKR for ₹1.5 crore at the mega auction ahead of this season, thanked the KKR management for giving him this important responsibility.
"First of all, it's an honor for me to be the captain of this wonderful franchisee, and I'm really thankful and grateful to the management for giving me this opportunity," he said as per Star Sports.