By Zainab Shafiq 
The Kolkata Knight Riders have been dealt a potential blow with the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) fast approaching as their star acquisition, Venkatesh Iyer, sustained an ankle injury during a Ranji Trophy match. Iyer, who cost KKR a whopping INR 23.75 crore and played a pivotal role in their IPL 2024 triumph, left the field after twisting his ankle while batting for Madhya Pradesh against Kerala in Trivandrum.
Iyer walked in at No. 6 in the 18th over as Madhya Pradesh were struggling at 49/4 after Kerala had elected to bowl first. He could face only three deliveries before the injury forced him off the field. Iyer seemed to be in considerable discomfort, assisted by the team’s physiotherapist and reserve players.
Hopes Hang on Venkatesh Iyer’s Recovery, Big Blow to Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2025
KKR is optimistic that the injury is minor as Iyer is an important player for their plans in IPL 2025. The 30-year-old all-rounder was the third-highest priced player at the IPL 2025 auction, after Rishabh Pant (INR 27 crore) and Shreyas Iyer (INR 26.75 crore).
Iyer played pivotal innings in KKR’s successful campaign of the IPL 2024. Iyer aggregated 370 runs during the season at an average of 46.25 with a strike rate of 158.80. He continuously batted in pressure situations to make his side believe in his abilities and it made the side to bid aggressively for him.
The live streaming of Kerala and Madhya Pradesh’s game in the on-going Ranji Trophy continues, which fans are glued to for latest updates on the condition of their favourite Iyer. Other live matches include Chandigarh and Tamil Nadu along with Mumbai versus Jammu and Kashmir.
With IPL 2025 just over a month away, KKR will be closely monitoring Venkatesh Iyer’s recovery, as the team looks to defend their title and build on their 2024 success.
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