The IPL 2025 mega auction delivered one of the most dramatic and financially extravagant events in tournament history. Rishabh Pant shattered all previous records as Lucknow Super Giants splurged a massive ₹27 crore to secure the star wicketkeeper-batter. Not far behind, Punjab Kings triggered another bidding frenzy by snapping up Shreyas Iyer for ₹26.75 crore, while Kolkata Knight Riders joined the high-stakes contest, investing ₹23.75 crore in Venkatesh Iyer.

On the field, Shreyas proved his worth immediately, amassing over 600 runs and leading PBKS to a memorable runners-up finish. Pant, despite LSG’s disappointing seventh-place standing, ended the season on a high with a brilliant century. However, Venkatesh endured a forgettable campaign — scoring only 142 runs in seven innings and not bowling a single over.

With KKR finishing below LSG and his output falling well short of expectations, the franchise eventually parted ways with him ahead of the mini-auction. This decision has now left KKR with the largest purse among all 10 teams — a commanding ₹64.3 crore — giving them unmatched financial power heading into the next phase of the auction.

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With several high-quality T20 specialists available, the former champions have the resources to target new signings aggressively. KKR have also initiated a structural overhaul, appointing Abhishek Nayar as their new head coach. Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim believes this shift hints at a calculated long-term plan — one that may even include buying back Venkatesh Iyer at a significantly reduced price.

“There is a strong possibility that KKR may buy him back,” Saba Karim said on JioHotstar. “Releasing him at ₹23 crore opened up a huge purse, and Venkatesh is unlikely to attract such a high bid again.”

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Karim further explained that this approach aligns perfectly with Nayar’s philosophy. “This is a trademark Abhishek Nayar move. He retains only those he sees as part of a consistent winning core and brings others back cheaply. KKR may feel Venkatesh has exhausted his utility — much like the long-term valuation they had for Andre Russell — but a buyback at the right price remains firmly on the table.”