Kolkata Knight Riders’ CEO Venky Mysore has broken his silence on the franchise’s decision to let go of all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Iyer, who was a record INR 23.75 crore acquisition in 2025, finds himself back in the auction fray after a lackluster season. Despite a dip in form, the 26-year-old is considered a valuable asset, entering the mini-auction with a base price of INR 2 crore. He is among a select group of Indian players commanding this price, making him an attractive prospect for franchises seeking a dynamic top-order batsman with bowling capabilities. The upcoming auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16 will feature a vast pool of talent, with only a limited number of player slots available, intensifying the race for players like Iyer.
Iyer’s performance in IPL 2025 was a significant concern for KKR, as he managed only 142 runs in 11 games and offered little with his bowling. This underwhelming display prompted the franchise to release him. Mysore suggested that the immense price tag might have inadvertently placed a burden on Iyer, impacting his performance. He emphasized the franchise’s strategic approach to team composition, valuing flexibility and the ability to adapt during auctions. The decision to release Iyer, he clarified, was primarily influenced by the mini-auction’s format, allowing KKR more strategic options rather than reflecting solely on Iyer’s past contributions.