Venkatesh Iyer, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder, has recently made headlines not only for his cricketing prowess but also for his academic pursuits.
Following a successful IPL 2025 auction where he was acquired for a staggering ₹23.75 crore, Iyer revealed that he is currently pursuing a PhD in Finance.
This decision underscores his belief in the importance of education for athletes, particularly in light of the typically short career span in professional sports.
Academic Journey
Iyer’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Commerce from Indore’s DAVV University, followed by an MBA in Finance from the same institution.
His educational background is impressive, and he even received a job offer from Deloitte after completing his MBA in 2018.
However, Iyer chose to prioritize his cricket career over a corporate job, highlighting his commitment to the sport while recognizing the value of education.
In interviews, Iyer has emphasized that education is crucial for athletes. He stated, “I want cricketers to educate themselves not just with cricketing knowledge, but general knowledge as well”.
He believes that being educated helps players make better decisions on the field and provides a necessary balance to their lives outside of cricket.
“Academics can give me the perfect switch-off from the game. I don’t want to be thinking of the game all the time; it adds pressure”.
Future Aspirations
As Iyer continues his PhD studies, he looks forward to being addressed as “Dr. Venkatesh Iyer” in future interviews.
He has expressed a desire for fellow cricketers to pursue their education alongside their sports careers, stating that “if you can complete your graduation or post-graduation, you definitely should”.
This perspective reflects a broader understanding that while cricket may be a primary focus during an athlete’s active years, education remains a lifelong asset.
Iyer’s approach serves as an inspiration for young cricketers and athletes across various sports, reinforcing the idea that academic achievements can coexist with athletic success.
His commitment to both fields exemplifies how sports professionals can prepare for life beyond their playing days.
