Why KKR chose Ajinkya Rahane over Venkatesh Iyer as captain
What's the story
Ajinkya Rahane was named the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League season.
The decision was announced by KKR CEO Venky Mysore, who mentioned Rahane's vast experience and maturity in dealing with high-pressure tournaments like the IPL.
Venkatesh Iyer was also in the race for the captaincy but was appointed as vice-captain instead.
Here's what Mysore said regarding the captaincy.
Experience matters
Rahane's experience swayed KKR's captaincy decision
Mysore stressed on the difficulty of leading a side in the cut-throat IPL.
He recognized Iyer's potential but believed Rahane's immense experience and maturity were important for the tough job.
"It takes a very steady hand, takes a lot of maturity and experience which we felt Ajinkya brings with him," Mysore told ESPNcricinfo.
Captaincy credentials
Rahane's IPL journey and leadership experience
This will be Rahane's second stint with KKR, having played seven matches for them in IPL 2022.
He has been a part of the IPL since its inception in 2008, playing for six franchises.
His captaincy credentials include leading India to eight wins in 11 games across formats, and two IPL teams: Rising Pune Supergiant once and Rajasthan Royals multiple times.
Experience acknowledged
Mysore praises Rahane's extensive experience
Mysore emphasized Rahane's wealth of experience as a boon for KKR.
"He has played 185 IPL games, 200 international games across formats," Mysore said.
"He has led India, led Mumbai in domestic, he's led in IPL. And he has played from season one of IPL."
This wealth of experience is sure to come in handy for the team in their upcoming matches.
Beyond the field
Mysore emphasizes the multifaceted nature of captaincy
Mysore also emphasized that captaincy isn't just about what happens on the field.
"There's a lot of other stuff when it comes to IPL, including dealing with media, and there will be expectation in terms of the captain," he said.
He added that a successful captain has to build relationships in a diverse team and prepare for various things like camps and meetings.
Future potential
Venkatesh Iyer's future potential and mentorship
Mysore also praised Iyer's leadership qualities and potential to be a future captain.
"We have been very, very impressed with the leadership qualities that he has shown," said Mysore.
He also hinted at a mentor-mentee relationship between Rahane and Iyer, saying that Rahane would guide Iyer in his new role as vice-captain.
Stats
Rahane's IPL stats
Rahane has represented six IPL teams so far - Rajasthan Royals, Rising Pune Supergiant, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, KKR and Chennai Super Kings.
Overall, Rahane has bagged 4,642 runs at 30.14. He has slammed two tons and 30 fifties. The veteran batter has smashed 103 sixes and 478 fours. His strike rate reads 123.42.
Rahane captained RR across 24 matches. He posted nine wins and 15 defeats.
He also led RPS in one clash.
Season
Season to launch with KKR vs RCB face-off
The 18th edition of the IPL will kick off on Saturday, March 22. The opening match will take place at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, where the defending champions KKR will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Additionally, KKR would be looking to defend their title, while RCB would make a strong push toward their maiden title.