Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer is set to take on a crucial role in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 as the vice-captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). As the defending champions prepare to start their title defense against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on 22nd March 2025, all eyes will be on Iyer, who has been a key performer for the franchise since making his debut in IPL 2021.
In a recent interview, Venkatesh Iyer reflected on an important lesson he learned about staying focused on the present, a philosophy that has helped him grow as a cricketer.
A Life-Changing Lesson of Venkatesh Iyer from Shah Rukh Khan
Iyer shared a moment from 2022 when talks about his selection in India’s T20 World Cup squad started gaining momentum. However, rather than concentrating on his ongoing performances, he became preoccupied with making it to the tournament.
“In 2022, there were talks about me being in the [T20] World Cup squad. Instead of focusing on my present matches, I started thinking about the World Cup. In the end, I missed out on both. That experience was a turning point. It taught me the value of focusing on the present, a lesson reinforced when an injury sidelined me for six to eight months,” said Venkatesh Iyer.
“That phase taught me a lot about being grateful. Sometimes, in the pursuit of something extraordinary, we forget to appreciate what we already have. And these are not my words; Shah Rukh Khan told me this,” Iyer shared in an interview with Boria Majumdar on Backstage with Boria (Season 6).
Venkatesh Iyer’s Impressive IPL Journey with KKR
Since making his debut for KKR in IPL 2021, Iyer has consistently delivered for the franchise. His first season was remarkable, where he scored 370 runs in 10 matches at an average of 41.11 and a strike rate of 128.47, including four half-centuries. His ability to contribute with the ball also added to his value, picking up three wickets with his medium pace.
His strong performances earned him a place in India’s national squad as an alternative to Hardik Pandya, who was struggling with injuries. Iyer made his T20I debut in November 2021 and played nine matches, scoring 133 runs at an average of 33.25 and a strike rate of over 162. However, he has not been featured in India since February 2022.
For KKR, Iyer has been a consistent performer. In 51 IPL matches, he has amassed 1,326 runs at an average of 31.57, with a strike rate of 137. His best performance came with a century (104) along with 11 half-centuries.
Key Contributor in KKR’s 2024 Title Victory
During IPL 2024, Iyer played a crucial role in KKR’s title-winning campaign. He was the third-highest run-getter for the team, scoring 370 runs in 13 innings at an average of 46.25 and a strike rate of 158.79. His best knock of the season was 70, and he scored important half-centuries in the playoffs and the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
As KKR enters IPL 2025, Iyer’s role as vice-captain will be pivotal. With a new leadership responsibility, he will look to continue his impressive run and help the team defend their title.