Venkatesh Iyer https://www.cricketwinner.com Venkatesh Iyer Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:05:03 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA['Using the money we didn’t spend on Yuzi...'- RCB director reveals their thoughts during IPL 2025 mega auction]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/using-the-money-we-didn-t-spend-on-yuzi-rcb-director-reveals-their-thoughts-during-ipl-2025-mega-auction/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/using-the-money-we-didn-t-spend-on-yuzi-rcb-director-reveals-their-thoughts-during-ipl-2025-mega-auction/ Fri, 22 Aug 2025 19:32:22 GMT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) director Mo Bobat revealed an interesting fact about their bidding strategy for the IPL 2025 mega auction. RCB went too far to acquire the service of Venkatesh Iyer, but it was Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) who finally won the war of price. Iyer sold to KKR for a staggering INR 23.75 crores.

RCB raised their paddle for up to INR 23.50. The Indian all-rounder got massive success in the previous season's IPL but proved to be one of the biggest flops in the 2025 Indian Premier League. Now, Bobat clearly discussed why they were chasing KKR to get Iyer in their squad. He said that they could get Iyer's service for 14 to 15 crores maximum. But when the bidding war was ignited, the situation was beyond their expectations. Still, they were not worried about the unexpected high price, because they tried to use the money they did not use for Yuzvendra Chahal. 

"Our original budget was something like 14 or 15 for him, as probably a maximum number, hoping we'd get him for less than that. And then, obviously, the bidding gets a little bit out of control. When we were bidding, we were thinking we still weren't compromising the rest of our squad, because we're just using the money we didn't spend on Yuzi. And then we did get closer to a point where we weren't just spending the Venky Iyer budget and the money we didn't spend on Yuzi," RCB director Mo Bobat said. 

Read More: Belgium tour of Austria, 2025, Match 1: Austria vs Belgium T10, Probable Playing 11, Where To Watch, Live Streaming Details

They talked with Iyer before

"Venky was someone we were really interested in. Andy and I and DK met him before the auction. He's a player that we like in terms of his skills. He's a character that I really respect. I think he would have been another one of those really senior, leaderful kind of characters that we recruited. So, we were really keen on him."

Notably, Chahal went to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for INR 18 crores in the IPL 2025 auction. The experienced spinner was with RCB from 2014 to 2021, 8 long years. 

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<![CDATA[5 Players likely to be released ahead of IPL 2026 Auction]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/5-players-likely-to-be-released-ahead-of-ipl-2026-auction/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/5-players-likely-to-be-released-ahead-of-ipl-2026-auction/ Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:35:55 GMT

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) delivered thrilling encounters between the 10 participating teams. With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, anticipation is building among cricket fans for another electrifying season of T20 cricket. The auction is expected to bring fresh changes as franchises strategise to strengthen their squads and address performance gaps from the previous season.

In IPL 2025, while some players maintained top form and others made strong comebacks, a few struggled to meet expectations. Their underwhelming performances have almost sealed their fate, making them likely candidates for release ahead of the IPL 2026 player auction.

Quinton de Kock (KKR)

Quinton de Kock, the dynamic South African opener, played a pivotal role for Mumbai Indians (MI) during his stint from 2019 to 2021, amassing 1,329 runs. His back-to-back 500+ run seasons in 2019 and 2020 were instrumental in MI’s consecutive title triumphs. Later, with Lucknow Super Giants, he continued his strong run, scoring 901 runs over three seasons, showcasing consistency at the top.

Ahead of IPL 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), fresh off their 2024 title win, sought a power-packed opener after releasing Phil Salt. They secured de Kock for INR 3.60 crore. However, he struggled to deliver, managing only 152 runs in eight matches at a modest strike rate of 129.91, falling short of expectations.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (KKR)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz earned his first IPL contract worth INR 50 lakh but could only muster 289 runs in 14 matches across two seasons for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Despite his modest returns, the franchise retained faith in his abilities, repurchasing him for INR 2 crore in the IPL 2025 auction. Initially left out of the playing XI, Gurbaz was brought in mid-season to replace the struggling Quinton de Kock.

Unfortunately, the 23-year-old Afghan opener couldn’t justify the management’s trust. His poor run continued as he managed just 74 runs in five matches, extending his lean patch and failing to make the desired impact at the top of the order.

See Also: Sony Network puts heavy advertisement price for India's matches ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Venkatesh Iyer (KKR)

Venkatesh Iyer, the talented left-hander from Madhya Pradesh, became a standout discovery for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the second half of IPL 2021 in the UAE. Scoring 370 runs in just 10 matches, he quickly cemented his place as a key member of the squad. His impactful performances, including a vital role in KKR’s 2024 title win, convinced the franchise to bring him back for the latest season.

After a fierce bidding war with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), KKR secured Venkatesh for a staggering INR 23.75 crore. However, his 2025 campaign proved disappointing, with only 142 runs in 11 matches and a demotion from his usual No.3 spot. With RCB still keen to acquire him for the IPL 2026 auction, his departure from the KKR setup now appears almost certain.

Rahul Tripathi (CSK)

Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Rahul Tripathi was picked up by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 3.40 crore ahead of IPL 2025. Prior to that, Tripathi had an underwhelming three-year run with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), where he managed 165 runs in six appearances during IPL 2024 at an impressive strike rate of 143.48. His attacking intent had kept him in demand across franchises, but CSK expected him to deliver consistency as a middle-order option in their batting setup for the new season.

However, the move did not go as planned for either the player or the franchise. Tripathi failed to make any significant contributions, scoring just 55 runs in five matches for CSK at a modest strike rate of 96.49. His lack of form was one of many setbacks that troubled CSK during a difficult campaign. With the franchise already eyeing a revamp, it appears likely that Tripathi could be released before the IPL 2026 auction as the team looks to rebuild.

Mohammed Shami (SRH)

Mohammed Shami enjoyed a brilliant two-year stint with Gujarat Titans (GT), where he picked up 48 wickets and played a key role in their success. Unfortunately, an ankle injury forced him to miss the entire IPL 2024 season. Ahead of IPL 2025, GT decided to release the veteran pacer during the mega auction. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), however, showed immense faith in his abilities and bought him for a massive INR 10 crore, expecting him to strengthen their pace attack.

But Shami’s comeback did not go as planned. The experienced seamer struggled to find his rhythm and looked far from his best. In nine outings, he managed only six wickets while conceding runs at an expensive economy rate of 11.23. Eventually, he was dropped from the playing XI as SRH sought better options. Given his lackluster returns and high price tag, Shami’s underwhelming season has almost confirmed his release from the Orange Army ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

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<![CDATA[No retention for Venkatesh Iyer! KKR likely to release some big names ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/no-retention-for-venkatesh-iyer-kkr-likely-to-release-some-big-names-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/no-retention-for-venkatesh-iyer-kkr-likely-to-release-some-big-names-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Sun, 17 Aug 2025 12:25:20 GMT

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to drop some big names ahead of the IPL 2025 season. One of the big names that could be shown the exit door before the mega auction later this year is none other than Venkatesh Iyer. According to the latest reports, the Indore-based all-rounder is reportedly looking to leave the franchise, with whom he has been since the 2021 season. A hefty price tag of Rs 23.75 crore got too big on the all-rounder, as he could only manage one half-century across seven innings. 

It is worth mentioning that Iyer has not represented any other franchise apart from KKR. Many experts have started speculating that Iyer would be traded to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for Ishan Kishan. But for the time being, such claims haven't been confirmed, with the all-rounder himself admitting that he hasn't been contacted by anyone regarding such a trade deal.

See also: Mohammad Kaif picks his India XI for Asia Cup 2025

Nortje and De Kock amongst others to follow suit

According to sources from RevSportz, the 2024 IPL champions are also reportedly considering letting go of some other big names, such as Quinton de Kock, Spencer Johnson, and Anrich Nortje, ahead of the next IPL season. The South African southpaw endured a mediocre season, scoring at an average of just 21.1 with just one half-century to his name.

Spencer Johnson, on the other hand, had a poor outing across all four games he played as he could only muster a solitary wicket. Nortje also had very little impact with the ball, picking up just two wickets in the entire season. The South African quick has shown a tendency to succumb to injuries in the past. Bearing that fact in mind, the franchise will definitely look to part ways with him and replace him with someone who is less injury-prone. 

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<![CDATA[4 Mega trades that could take place before IPL 2026 Auction]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/4-mega-trades-that-could-take-place-before-ipl-2026-auction/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/4-mega-trades-that-could-take-place-before-ipl-2026-auction/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 20:38:38 GMT

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is just a few months away, and trade rumours are already heating up. Big names like Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, and Ravichandran Ashwin are reportedly in the mix for possible moves. Although the new season will kick off next summer, franchises have begun analysing their squads, identifying weaknesses, and exploring ways to strengthen ahead of the auction. Discussions around player retention, releases, and strategic signings are already shaping the build-up to what promises to be another thrilling IPL season.

See Also: Sachin Tendulkar's son Arjun Tendulkar gets married to Mumbai businessman's granddaughter

The league has witnessed major trade deals in the past, with Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans for INR 15 crore ahead of IPL 2024 being one of the most notable. Pandya’s move came after he led the Titans to their maiden title in 2022, their debut season. As the auction approaches, similar blockbuster trades could be on the horizon. Here’s a look at four high-profile player moves that might take place before the IPL 2026 auction begins. Lets look some of the eye catching trade;

Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals to CSK)

Sanju Samson RR 2025

Reports indicate that Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson could be traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who are looking for a successor to MS Dhoni. Samson offers leadership qualities and reliability as a wicketkeeper-batter. Potential trade options for CSK include Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, or Ravichandran Ashwin to balance the deal.

Samson has been associated with RR since 2013, except for the 2016 and 2017 seasons when the franchise was banned. Over the years, he has become one of their most consistent performers and a key figure in their setup. He recently shared his experiences of playing for the Jaipur-based team.

Will Jacks (Mumbai Indians to Delhi Capitals)

Will Jacks MI 2025

England all-rounder Will Jacks had a below-par IPL 2025 with Mumbai Indians (MI), scoring only 233 runs and taking six wickets in 13 matches. This could see him on the move ahead of IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals (DC) are a potential destination, with reports hinting they may trade Vipraj Nigam or Ashutosh Sharma. Jacks also plays for Pretoria Capitals in SA20, DC’s sister franchise, where he has scored 740 runs and taken 13 wickets in 27 matches.

KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals to KKR)

KL Rahul 2025

In a surprising development, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul could be traded to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Delhi Capitals bought him for INR 14 crore, and he delivered a strong season with the bat.

Rahul scored 539 runs in 13 matches, including three fifties and a century. As per The Times of India, KKR view him as both a batting boost and a potential captain, with his good rapport with assistant coach Abhishek Nayar adding to the appeal.

Venkatesh Iyer (KKR to RCB)

Venkatesh Iyer KKR 2025

KKR bought Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, but he underperformed, scoring only 142 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 139.21, with just one fifty.

Reports suggest Venkatesh could be traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for Phil Salt, who scored 403 runs in 13 matches with four fifties. RCB head coach Andy Flower had earlier admitted they tried to sign Venkatesh in the IPL 2025 mega auction, engaging in a bidding war with KKR.

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<![CDATA['KKR can release Venkatesh Iyer to sign Sanju Samson' - Former India player suggests amid Sanju Samson's transfer rumours ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kkr-can-release-venkatesh-iyer-to-sign-sanju-samson-former-india-player-suggests-amid-sanju-samson-s-transfer-rumours-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kkr-can-release-venkatesh-iyer-to-sign-sanju-samson-former-india-player-suggests-amid-sanju-samson-s-transfer-rumours-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:04:59 GMT

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could be the frontrunners to sign Sanju Samson if the Rajasthan Royals (RR) decide to release him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. He pointed out that KKR are in need of a quality Indian wicketkeeper-batter who can also lead the team, and Sanju fits both roles. To accommodate him, KKR might consider releasing Venkatesh Iyer, which would free up the required budget for the high-profile signing.

Reports suggest that Sanju Samson has formally requested the Rajasthan Royals to release him before the 2026 auction. The Royals, who lacked a dependable Indian wicketkeeper in IPL 2025, were forced to rely on overseas options like Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Earlier, they had let go of Phil Salt, who joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With Samson’s departure request and KKR’s interest, a potential shift could significantly impact the dynamics of both franchises in the upcoming season.

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin names best 5-a-side teams from India and England after 2025 Test series

"The first name that comes to my mind is not CSK. KKR should be the most desperate team. KKR don't have an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and that just ties their hands behind their back. Secondly, what's wrong if you get a captain? I am not denying that Ajinkya Rahane has captained well and has scored runs as well. However, Ajinkya Rahane as a batter, either he opens or else the batting order has been a bit of a problem. They have a player they can release as well. If they wish, they can release Venkatesh Iyer, free up nearly ₹24 crore, and then they can actually make a difference. Why would Sanju Samson want to leave? It's interesting because when the last mega auction happened, they let Jos Buttler go, and I felt they let Jos Buttler go because Yashasvi had come and Sanju wanted to open, and Sanju and Rajasthan Royals were really, really thick," Chopra said on hsi youtube channel.

Samson may leave RR due to Suryavanshi’s rise: Chopra

Sanju Samson has been a key figure for the Rajasthan Royals since his IPL debut in 2013, only missing out during the team's suspension in 2016 and 2017. However, recent reports suggest he has requested a release, possibly influenced by the rise of Vaibhav Suryavanshi as Yashasvi Jaiswal’s new opening partner. Aakash Chopra believes this development may have led Samson to consider moving on. While Samson is reportedly keen to leave, the Royals are not open to an all-cash trade and are instead seeking a like-for-like replacement in any potential deal.

"I felt there would have been a massive input from Sanju in the players they retained or released. However, now it seems it might not have been there. Vaibhav Suryavanshi has come, so two openers are already ready, and you also want to bat Dhruv Jurel up the order. So Sanju wishes to leave. If he is thinking like that, it's possible. These are conjectures. I don't know what's in his and Rajasthan's minds," Chopra concluded.

 

 

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<![CDATA[IPL 2026 Trade News: KKR likely to swap star batter with SRH]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2026-trade-news-kkr-likely-to-swap-star-batter-with-srh/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2026-trade-news-kkr-likely-to-swap-star-batter-with-srh/ Thu, 17 Jul 2025 21:21:48 GMT

The IPL 2026 trade window has kicked off with a bang, sparking plenty of excitement and rumors among fans. With teams looking to regroup after a dramatic 2025 season, trade talks and player transfers are already making waves across social media platforms.

One of the most widely discussed speculations involves Kolkata Knight Riders' dynamic batter, Venkatesh Iyer. Reports have emerged suggesting that KKR is considering a major trade involving Iyer, possibly swapping him with Sunrisers Hyderabad’s explosive batter Ishan Kishan. The rumor has sparked a range of reactions among fans, with both players having significant value to their respective teams.

Though nothing official has been confirmed yet, the possibility of such a high-profile trade has certainly added to the buzz of the ongoing trade window. As franchises prepare for the next season, fans are closely watching every move, hoping for strong squads and exciting cricket ahead in IPL 2026.

See Also: ENG vs IND: Will Jasprit Bumrah Play the 4th Test? Team India’s Assistant Coach Drops a Big Hint

IPL 2026 Trade News: KKR Likely to Part Ways with Star Batter:

Kolkata Knight Riders made headlines during the IPL 2025 mega auction by signing Venkatesh Iyer for a massive ₹23.75 crore. The high price tag made him one of the most expensive players of the season. However, his performance didn’t live up to expectations, turning the big investment into a major concern for the franchise.

Iyer’s poor form was one of the reasons behind KKR’s below-par title defense. Scoring only 142 runs in the entire season, his contribution was far from what was expected for a player who cost nearly one-fifth of the team’s total budget. As a result, reports suggest that KKR is now open to letting him go and cutting their losses.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have shown interest in Iyer and are reportedly exploring a trade, possibly involving Ishan Kishan. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also keeping an eye on the situation, with coach Andy Flower previously saying Iyer’s batting style could have flourished in their lineup. This situation reflects how IPL values performance over sentiment.

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<![CDATA["At 21, I haven't seen a more talented player": Venkatesh Iyer lauds Akshat Raghuwanshi]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/at-21-i-haven-t-seen-a-more-talented-player-venkatesh-iyer-lauds-akshat-raghuwanshi/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/at-21-i-haven-t-seen-a-more-talented-player-venkatesh-iyer-lauds-akshat-raghuwanshi/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:39:10 GMT

Venkatesh Iyer highlights a serious talent playing in the ongoing Madhya Pradesh League T20 2025. Iyer is totally impressed after watching a sublime batting performance from a young batter. According to Iyer, captain of the Indore Pink Panthers, Akshat Raghuwanshi is an immensely talented cricketer at the age of only 21.

"The way he played shots all around the ground, at 21, I haven't seen a more talented player. I really keep my fingers crossed; big things are waiting for him in the future," Venkatesh said in an MPL press release.

Raghuwanshi was at his peak when Indore Pink Panthers was toe-to-toe against Jabalpur Royal Lions in Match 5 of the Madhya Pradesh-based franchise tournament at the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Stadium, Shankarpur, on Saturday. With the help of seven fours and five sixes, Raghuwanshi played an exceptionally well 76 off 46-ball innings in the match. After losing one of their openers cheaply, it was Akshat who guided Indore to 183/7 after batting first. Skipper Iyer himself went for 16. 

Read More: India's squad for England Tests Expanded to 19, surprise name added: Report

Iyer's team combined well for the win 

In the next innings, the openers of the Jabalpur Royal Lions played brilliantly and set the stage perfectly for a win. But the middle-order batting lineup did not allow them to stand tall. Despite a partnership of 80 runs from the opening pair and a fifty-plus score from the number seven batter, Lions ended the match far away from a royal victory lap. Venkatesh Iyer took a couple of wickets and 3 scalps for Mihir Hirwani. 

After the match, the Indore skipper said, "The real highlight today was Akshat's batting. The way he played shots all around the ground, at 21, I haven't seen a more talented player. I really keep my fingers crossed; big things are waiting for him in the future... I felt I bowled well, especially since it had been a while since I last bowled."

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<![CDATA[Top 5 high-profile cricketers who couldn't live up to hype in IPL 2025]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/top-5-high-profile-cricketers-who-couldn-t-live-up-to-hype-in-ipl-2025/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/top-5-high-profile-cricketers-who-couldn-t-live-up-to-hype-in-ipl-2025/ Tue, 27 May 2025 14:49:34 GMT

The cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) is never short of talent. Right from its inception in 2008, all the way to the current 2025 season, the high-octane league has seen the birth of ground-breaking cricketing talent. Whilst there may be no shortage of talent, there are a few unfortunate souls who, despite their prolific stature and hefty price tags, fail to live up to the standards.

In this season alone, we have seen a few flop performances from some of the very best in the business. In this article, we showcase the top five high-profile cricketers who failed to live up to expectations in IPL 2025.

See also: WATCH: Viral moment when Shashank Singh predicted PBKS will end up in top 2 before start of IPL 2025

Rishabh Pant (₹27 crore, Lucknow Super Giants)

Perhaps the most shocking disappointment of all was to see Rishab Pant from LSG falter big time this season. Last year, he was acquired by LSG for a whopping ₹27 crore, making him the most expensive purchase in the history of IPL. Many of his fans, including Sanjeeev Goenka, founder of LSG, had high hopes from him. But contrary to their assumptions, Pant failed to deliver big. As the most expensive player in IPL history, Pant's performance was underwhelming. Pant could only manage 106 runs in seven innings, with an awful average of 15.14 and a strike rate below 100, significantly below expectations. 

Venkatesh Iyer (₹23.75 crore, Kolkata Knight Riders)

Just like Pant, Venkatesh Iyer from KKR also etched his name in the record books by becoming the second-most expensive player in the IPL mega-auction last year. But as fate would have it, Iyer succumbed to the burden of his heavy price tag. In six innings, Iyer managed only 135 runs with a solitary fifty. His highest score was 52* in the 2024 final, but this season, his performances have been inconsistent and disappointing. His score of 7 against DC on April 29th marked his fourth single-digit score, whereas against GT in a must-win fixture, Iyer could only score 14 (19), failing to hit a boundary and struggling to rotate the strike. His inconsistency and lack of impact were major disappointments for KKR this season as the tall all-rounder struggled to justify his hefty price tag. 

Mohammed Shami (₹10 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad)

The ace Indian speedster's performance has been another source of disappointment for the fans. Being acquired by SRH for a staggering ₹10 crore, Mohammed Shami's performance in IPL 2025 has significantly fallen short of expectations, causing concern among both fans and experts. As a member of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Shami's difficulties have been apparent throughout the season. Across nine matches, Shami could only muster six wickets under his tally, with an alarming economy rate of 11.23. His figures include a particularly dismal performance against Punjab Kings, where he conceded 75 runs in four overs—the most expensive bowling spell by an Indian in IPL history. Subsequently, he also went on to claim an unwanted record of having the second-highest bowling figures in IPL history.

Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore, Royal Challengers Bangalore)

England's Liam Livingstone serves as yet another example of how expensive buys can lead franchises to inevitable catastrophes. Although RCB has stormed into the playoffs in blazing fashion, Livingstone's paltry contribution both with the bat and the ball has caught the ire of many fans and cricketing pundits alike. Livingstone has managed only 87 runs in seven matches, averaging 17.40 with a strike rate of 127.94. His sole highlight was a half-century against the Gujarat Titans, but he failed to cross the 20-run mark in subsequent innings. Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary cited Livingstone's poor shot selection and lack of game awareness as the key reasons for his poor show this season. He noted that Livingstone has faced more than 10 deliveries in an innings only once this season, highlighting his inability to build and anchor the innings progressively.

Glenn Maxwell (₹4.2 crore, Royal Challengers Bangalore) 

Maxwell has been a serious contender across several IPL seasons in the past decade. But his performance in the ongoing IPL edition has been nothing short of disappointing. He has clearly had a season to forget, with only 48 runs in seven innings and four wickets at an economy rate of 8.46. His inability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball was a concern for RCB. Batting has surfaced as the primary source of concern for the Australian southpaw. He started his journey poorly this season by registering a golden duck against GT in the tournament opener, marking his 19th duck in the cash-rich league. And to further compound his woes, Maxwell suffered a fractured finger during training in early May, ruling him out for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. This injury has ended a season that many had hoped would mark a resurgence for the 36-year-old all-rounder.

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<![CDATA[IPL 2025: Why is Venkatesh Iyer not playing against CSK in match number 57?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-venkatesh-iyer-not-playing-against-csk-in-match-number-57/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-venkatesh-iyer-not-playing-against-csk-in-match-number-57/ Wed, 07 May 2025 19:44:42 GMT

In a high-octane IPL 2025 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the iconic Eden Gardens on Wednesday, May 7, fans were surprised to see Venkatesh Iyer missing from KKR’s playing XI. Instead, the experienced Manish Pandey was drafted into the side, bringing a touch of composure to the top order.

KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and chose to bat first, citing the dry but good-looking wicket. "We will look to bat first. Looks a very good wicket. We have seen here the wickets are on the drier side. But this looks a good wicket. In the last two games, we batted first and did really well. We will look to put a good total on the board and defend it," Rahane said at the toss.

The team management made a notable change by replacing Venkatesh Iyer, who has been a key part of KKR’s middle order in recent seasons. While no official statement was provided at the toss regarding Iyer’s absence, sources suggest he has been rested due to a minor niggle and is being preserved for the business end of the tournament. In his place, Manish Pandey, known for his calm demeanor and vast experience, was slotted in. Pandey’s inclusion adds stability and a wealth of experience, especially useful against a seasoned CSK attack.

ALSO SEE:Virat Kohli drops 5 bombshell revelations in latest RCB podcast: Click to read more

Conway Back, Urvil Debuts as Dhoni Feels at Home in Eden Gardens

On the other hand, CSK made a couple of changes as well. Devon Conway returned to the side, adding solidity at the top, while Urvil Patel made his debut for the franchise. Captain MS Dhoni, speaking at the toss, reminisced about his long history with Eden Gardens. “I have played a lot of cricket over here growing up U-16, U-19, club cricket. It’s like a home ground for me,” Dhoni said.

With match number 57 promising fireworks, fans will be keenly watching how the reshuffled lineups perform under pressure.

KKR Playing XI: Gurbaz (wk), Narine, Pandey, Rahane (c), Rinku, Raghuvanshi, Russell, Ramandeep, Moeen, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy

CSK Playing XI: Mhatre, Urvil Patel, Conway, Jadeja, Brevis, Ashwin, Dhoni (c & wk), Kamboj, Khaleel, Noor Ahmad, Pathirana

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<![CDATA[Watch: KKR Stars Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer and Dwayne Bravo celebrate victory with epic dance moves!]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-kkr-stars-rinku-venky-bravo-celebrate-victory-with-epic-dance-moves/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-kkr-stars-rinku-venky-bravo-celebrate-victory-with-epic-dance-moves/ Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:07:16 GMT

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) put on a spectacular show at Eden Gardens on April 3, 2025, as they crushed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with an all-round performance. After a shaky start, Rinku Singh and Venkatesh Iyer led the recovery before KKR’s bowlers dismantled SRH, securing a convincing win. The highlight of the night? A celebratory dance featuring Rinku, Venky, and Dwayne Bravo!

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Rinku Singh & Venkatesh Iyer stitched Game-Changing Partnership

KKR required a mid-innings push. This was provided by the masterclass duo of Venkatesh and Rinku. Striking 60 off 29 Vanquished deliveries with the bat, including three sixes, seven fours, and some devastation, Venky was simply on another level. On the other hand, Rinku Singh was supporting him exceedingly well too, with some boundaries. Striking 32 off 17, including four boundaries and one six, Rinku came up with the goods too. Their partnership helped KKR set a target of an impressive 200/6 in 20 overs.

Also read: IPL 2025 Points Table, Purple Cap and Orange Cap after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) match

Bowlers from KKR Deliver With Precision To Seal Dominating Control

Following the clinically executed total put on the board, SRH were destroyed; KKR’s bowlers delivered the chaos with excellent precision on the sowing of consistent wickets through delivering controlled, powerful deliveries. The added pressure caused the SRH lineup to crack, and they eventually crumbled under extreme pressure as KKR bowled them out for a mere 120 runs in 16.4 overs. KKR's impressive 80-run defeat not only snatched two points from SRH but also created an opportunity to contest within the IPL 2025 with the fifth spot on the leader-board.

Also read: LSG VS MI : Match 16 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

Watch Dance Celebration Lights Up Eden Gardens!

After the emphatic win, the atmosphere in the KKR camp was electric. Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, and Dwayne Bravo stole the show with their joyful dance celebration. The trio showcased some energetic moves, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The video of their dance quickly went viral, with fans loving the team’s camaraderie and winning spirit.

With this victory, KKR has made a strong statement in IPL 2025, and their celebratory dance only adds to the entertainment they bring both on and off the field!

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