IPL 2025 mega auction: 3 teams who might target Venkatesh Iyer

Venkatesh Iyer played for KKR from IPL 2021 to 2024.

Venkatesh Iyer, who was a key figure in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batting lineup since his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut in 2021, was released by the franchise before the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Known for his all-round ability, Venkatesh played a key role in KKR’s title-winning campaign last season. The IPL 2024 season saw Iyer amass 370 runs at an explosive strike rate of 159. Despite getting limited time in the middle due to KKR’s excellent opening partnerships, Iyer played a vital role in helping KKR mount daunting totals.

Apart from being a versatile batter, Iyer is also a handy part-time medium pacer, making him a good sixth bowling option. Given his impressive IPL record, the southpaw is expected to attract strong interest at the auction table.

Also, KKR don’t have any Right To Match cards left as they have retained six players.

On that note, let’s look at three teams who might target Venkatesh Iyer in the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Three teams who might target Venkatesh Iyer in the IPL 2025 mega auction:

1. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Lucknow Super Giants can target Venkatesh Iyer in the upcoming mega auction after KL Rahul’s departure. Rahul’s exit has created a big hole in LSG’s top order.

Iyer’s flexibility to open the innings as well as bat in the middle order would make him a justified target for Lucknow. Iyer’s potential inclusion will give LSG the option to use him anywhere in their batting order. Iyer can open the innings as well as support the finishers in the side.

2. Delhi Capitals (DC)

Rishabh Pant’s exit from the franchise has left a huge void in the Delhi Capitals’ middle order. Playing the middle-order role for KKR last season to great success, Venkatesh Iyer can prove to be the solution for the Capitals’ middle order.

Venkatesh is known for his excellent hitting ability against spinners. Furthermore, his potential inclusion along with already retained Tristan Stubbs and Axar Patel can create a formidable set of finishers for DC. His left-handedness will replicate that of Pant.

3. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Punjab Kings will enter the IPL 2025 mega auction with the biggest purse (INR 110.5 crores) at their disposal. Having retained only two players, PBKS have the challenging task of completely rebuilding the squad.

Venkatesh Iyer could prove to be an ideal addition to the PBKS middle order. His ability to play aggressive cricket, combined with his versatility, will complement the finisher Shashank Singh. PBKS have let go of a couple of international all-rounders as well, a role Venkatesh can fill aptly.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.