Ajinkya Rahane Named KKR Captain for 2025 IPL, Venkatesh Iyer Appointed Vice-Captain

Ajinkya Rahane Named KKR Captain for 2025 IPL, Venkatesh Iyer Appointed Vice-Captain
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for the upcoming 2025 TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) season, with Venkatesh Iyer stepping in as vice-captain.

Announcing the leadership change, KKR CEO Venky Mysore expressed confidence in the duo, stating, “Ajinkya brings immense experience and a calm, strategic approach to leadership, which will be invaluable as we defend our title. Venkatesh, a core member of KKR, possesses strong leadership qualities, and we believe their partnership will steer the team toward another successful season.”

Rahane, excited about the challenge, said, “Leading KKR is a huge honor. This franchise has a rich history of success in the IPL, and we have a well-balanced squad. I’m eager to work with the team and embrace the responsibility of defending our title.”

KKR will kick off their title defense on March 22 with a highly anticipated season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens.

About Knight Riders

The Knight Riders franchise is a global powerhouse in T20 cricket, boasting eight trophies across four professional teams:

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Indian Premier League (IPL)

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) – Caribbean Premier League (CPL)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) – International League T20 (UAE)

Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) – Major League Cricket (USA)


KKR has an illustrious IPL history, with four final appearances and three championship wins (2012, 2014, 2024). The team also finished as runners-up in 2021, showcasing one of the most remarkable comebacks in IPL history. Their CPL counterpart, TKR, has dominated the Caribbean League, securing four titles in a decade, including a flawless championship run in 2020. Additionally, TKR Women made history by winning the inaugural Women’s CPL (WCPL) in 2022.

The Knight Riders Academy continues to be a crucial talent incubator, scouting and nurturing cricketers from India and beyond, ensuring year-round skill development and fitness enhancement.