As we gear up for the IPL 2025 mega auction, all eyes are on the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Fresh off their third IPL title win, KKR has a talented squad, but with the upcoming auction, they can’t retain everyone. So, which key players are likely to stay on board for the next season?
KKR Stars Likely to Be Retained
Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer has been a cornerstone for KKR, both as a batsman and leader. Despite a somewhat inconsistent IPL 2024 season, where he scored 351 runs at a strike rate of 146.86, Iyer’s experience and leadership were crucial in KKR’s journey to the title. With over 3,000 runs in 115 IPL games, Iyer’s consistency, particularly in the middle order, makes him a prime candidate for retention.
Harshit Rana The young pace sensation Harshit Rana has made quite an impact with his performances. In IPL 2024, Rana took 19 wickets, showcasing his ability to control the game during powerplays and deliver in the death overs. His performances earned him an ODI call-up, and he’s become a fan favorite with his fiery celebrations and match-winning abilities. Rana’s potential and recent form make him a likely choice for retention.
Sunil Narine A veteran of the league and a three-time MVP, Sunil Narine remains one of KKR’s most valuable assets. With his all-round skills, Narine has been a game-changer for KKR, offering explosive starts at the top and economical spin bowling. His stats speak for themselves: 1,534 runs at a strike rate of 165.84 and 180 wickets with an economy of 6.73. His experience and versatility make him a top pick for retention, possibly even ahead of other big names like Andre Russell.
The Retention Rules and Considerations
The current IPL retention policy allows each franchise to retain up to three Indian players and two overseas players. As KKR prepares for discussions with the BCCI regarding the retention rules, it will be intriguing to see if these numbers change, potentially allowing KKR to retain more of their star performers.
With players like Shreyas Iyer, Harshit Rana, and Sunil Narine likely on the retention list, KKR will aim to balance their lineup with a mix of experienced and emerging talent. The team will look to retain a core group that can lead them to another successful campaign in IPL 2025.
