Lagatar24 Desk
Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer has admitted that the pressure of his ₹23.75 crore price tag in the previous year’s IPL auction is something he cannot ignore. The 30-year-old all-rounder, now the third-highest-paid player in IPL history, expressed confidence in overcoming the expectations attached to the hefty sum.
Iyer on Price Tag and IPL Expectations
Speaking at a press conference alongside KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane, mentor Dwayne Bravo, and head coach Chandrakant Pandit, Iyer emphasized that once the tournament begins, the focus remains on team performance, not individual price tags.
“It exists. You can’t ignore it altogether, but when the IPL starts, it really doesn’t matter. You’re part of a playing XI, part of a team that is going out there to win,” Iyer said.
Dwayne Bravo on KKR’s Strategy and Shah Rukh Khan’s Influence
Newly appointed KKR mentor Dwayne Bravo stated that he would not make drastic changes to the strategies from the previous season. He also praised team owner Shah Rukh Khan for his passion and energy.
“It would be disrespectful of me to change things that worked well last season. It’s good to have a boss like Shah Rukh, who is truly invested in the game. That energy and vibe—I want to bring that here as well,” Bravo said.
Coach Chandrakant Pandit on KKR’s Preparations
Head coach Chandrakant Pandit highlighted that the team had been training rigorously since the Mumbai camp, ensuring that they enter the season well-prepared.
“Every match is different, and we have been preparing since the Mumbai camp. Now we have started training here as well. The confidence level that players bring from international matches will benefit KKR,” he said.
Ajinkya Rahane on Leadership and Batting Position
Newly appointed KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the franchise and reiterated his team-first approach.
“It’s an honour to lead this wonderful franchise. I am grateful to the management for this opportunity. My focus is on keeping things simple and ensuring that we give our best this season,” Rahane stated.
When asked about his batting position, he responded:
“I have always played wherever the team wanted me to play. Team thinking has always come first.”
Excitement Over Eden Gardens and Fan Support
Rahane and the team are eager to return to their home ground, Eden Gardens, where they expect massive fan support.
“It’s good to be back at Eden Gardens. We love playing here. The atmosphere, the energy, the passion that our fans bring—it’s unmatched,” Rahane concluded.
