With the recent injury to Venkatesh Iyer during a Ranji Trophy match, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are faced with the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for their star all-rounder, who was acquired for a staggering INR 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction.
Iyer’s injury has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming season, prompting KKR management to consider potential replacements.
Here are three candidates who could step in if Iyer is unable to play:
1. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur is a seasoned all-rounder with extensive experience in the IPL and international cricket. He has played for various franchises, including Chennai Super Kings and KKR in previous seasons.
Thakur is known for his seam bowling and ability to contribute with the bat lower down the order.
His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for any team. He has taken 94 wickets in 95 IPL matches and has also performed well internationally, with 33 wickets in 25 T20Is.
Surprisingly unsold at the IPL 2025 auction despite his previous high-value contracts, Thakur recently showcased his skills in domestic cricket, taking 15 wickets in nine matches during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and scoring runs at a respectable average.
2. Rishi Dhawan
Rishi Dhawan is an experienced all-rounder who has made significant contributions in domestic cricket and has previously played in the IPL for teams like Kings XI Punjab.
Dhawan has been impressive in domestic tournaments, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
His performances have often included match-winning contributions, making him a reliable choice for KKR if they seek an experienced player to step into Iyer’s role.
3. Sumit Kumar
Sumit Kumar is a young all-rounder who has been making waves in domestic cricket with his consistent performances.
Having performed well in recent domestic matches, Kumar’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an intriguing option for KKR.
His recent form suggests he could be ready to step up on a bigger stage if called upon.
