Former India cricketer turned commentator Mohammad Kaif added that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) must back Shreyas Iyer for the IPL
2025 season and continue to back him as captain too as well. Admitting that the batter has not been in sublime form lately, Kaif opined that he still deserves to be the first player to be retained by the franchise as well.

As per BCCI’s modified regulations for the IPL, each franchise can retain six players before IPL 2025 – either via direct retentions or using the Right To Match (RTM) option. Each team can retain a maximum of five capped and two uncapped players as well.

ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya shares happiness after winning back the love of fans

Speaking on Star Sports, he said (as quoted by Hindustan Times): “When a team wins and becomes a champion, then you want the main players to continue playing for the team. So they would want to retain the maximum number of players, use RTM on a few and also buy fewer players in the auction. Talking about Iyer’s batting, he may not play that well. But about his role as a captain, to lead the team to the title is a big thing. I think he has improved as a captain, he is getting better…If he can manage so many players and win you the trophy, then he deserves to be the first (to be retained),” Kaif added.

While discussing KKR’s possible retention strategy for the upcoming season, the veteran said on the franchise’s decision to release star player Eoin Morgan after he had led Kolkata to the 2021 final. Shreyas was named captain of the franchise in 2022. He has led the team in 29 matches so far, winning 17 and losing 11, while one game ended in no result as well.

“You cannot do what you did with Morgan. He led the side to the final, but was released later and KKR struggled in the next 2-3 seasons. Retain Iyer first and let him continue as captain,” Kaif concluded.