As the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) gear up for IPL 2025, three players have emerged as standout performers in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024.
Their exceptional form in this domestic T20 tournament has set high expectations for their contributions in the upcoming IPL season. The players making waves are Ajinkya Rahane, Venkatesh Iyer, and Varun Chakravarthy.
Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane has been nothing short of sensational during the SMAT 2024, playing a pivotal role for Mumbai.
He finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer, amassing 469 runs in just 9 matches at an impressive average of 58.62 and a strike rate of 164.56.
His performance included five half-centuries, with a top score of 98. Rahane’s ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed was crucial for Mumbai’s success, particularly in the knockout stages where he scored 84 runs off 45 balls in a high-pressure semifinal against Vidarbha.
Having joined KKR for IPL 2025 at a modest price of INR 1.5 crores, Rahane’s experience and form make him a key asset for KKR as they aim to defend their title.
Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer showcased his all-round capabilities during SMAT 2024 while representing Madhya Pradesh. He scored 227 runs in 10 matches at an average of 56.75 and a strike rate of 163.30.
Although he didn’t register a fifty, his consistent performances were instrumental in keeping Madhya Pradesh competitive throughout the tournament.
Iyer’s contributions were particularly notable during the semifinals, where he played a crucial role in guiding his team to victory with both bat and ball, taking two wickets alongside his steady batting.
Acquired by KKR for a record price of INR 23.75 crores during the auction, Iyer is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season, potentially stepping into a leadership position within the squad.
Varun Chakravarthy
Varun Chakravarthy continued to solidify his reputation as one of India’s premier spinners during SMAT 2024 while playing for Tamil Nadu.
In 7 matches, he took 9 wickets at an average of 21.55, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure with an economy rate of 7.76.
Chakravarthy’s standout performance included figures of 3/43 in a critical match that highlighted his skill as a mystery spinner capable of turning games in favor of his team.
