Australia’s former T20 World Cup-winning captain Aaron Finch has stirred the pre-auction conversation by suggesting that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) should part ways with Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, and Quinton de Kock ahead of the November 15 retention deadline. With KKR set for a major rebuild after a disappointing IPL 2025 season, Finch believes tough decisions are unavoidable.
Venkatesh Iyer endured a rough season, managing only 142 runs in 11 matches at an average of 20.29. Bought for a massive ₹23.75 crore, he neither settled as an opener nor made an impact in the middle order, leaving KKR with little value for such a hefty investment.
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Aaron Finch pointed out that paying such a sum for someone being shuffled out of position “is way too much,” mainly when his bowling was barely utilised. Andre Russell, the long-serving KKR superstar, also had a modest season. Retained for ₹12 crore ahead of the previous mega auction, the explosive all-rounder delivered just 167 runs in 10 innings and picked up eight wickets across 13 matches.
Venkatesh Iyer’s big price tag 💰
Quinton de Kock’s experience 🧠
Andre Russell’s explosiveness 💥With plenty on the line ahead of TATA IPL 2026, Aaron Finch reveals who #KKR should Hold or Fold! 💜
WATCH TATA IPL 2026 Retention Special 👉🏻 SAT, 15th NOV, 5 PM on Star Sports… pic.twitter.com/yU8MeHgKhS
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 10, 2025
While Finch admitted that KKR is unlikely to let Russell go due to his stature and fan following, he still believes releasing him or securing a strong trade could be a smart strategic move.
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KKR, who finished eighth under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy last season, now face a decisive moment. With the mini-auction approaching, the franchise needs clarity and bold moves if it wants to return as a serious contender in IPL 2026.
