Will Shreyas Iyer NOT get retained by KKR? Report provides fresh update
New Delhi: Speculation continues around Shreyas Iyer’s future with Kolkata Knight Riders as IPL 2025 retentions approach. Despite leading KKR to the 2024 title, media reports suggest limited communication between Iyer and the franchise. According to Times of India, KKR has now initiated talks with Iyer, though the franchise reportedly does not see him as their primary retention pick.
“As of last Friday, the two parties hadn’t spoken. There was lot of word going around on Shreyas Iyer and KKR but the two never sat across the table to have any discussion with regards to the plans for future or the IPL retentions. The first conversation happened on Sunday,” said a source close to developments.
Sources close to the situation have reportedly expressed surprise over KKR’s limited interest in retaining Shreyas Iyer. They also revealed that several franchises have already reached out to him with potential leadership offers.
“Iyer won a title last season, has been a proven leader when he successfully led Delhi Capitals. He has been a hot property in the league and it’s no surprise there were approaches from multiple franchise the moment KKR chose to take a backseat. If he goes into the auction pool, there will be at least three franchises who would be looking to get him. Indian middle-order bat, proven leader. Who would want to miss that combination? Not many,” a source told TOI.
Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh suggested that Kolkata Knight Riders retain Shreyas Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Phil Salt, and Sunil Narine to maintain a strong core group for the upcoming season.
“KKR dominated the entire season, so it will be difficult for them to leave or retain anyone. But it’s a matter of retention, so you only have limited numbers that you can retain. If I want to see or if I have to choose my 6 players, which 6 players will be there for KKR? I think Shreyas Iyer will be there, Phil Salt will be there, Narine will be there, Andre Russell will be there, Rinku Singh will be there,” Harbhajan told Star Sports.