KKR full squad, IPL 2025: Kolkata Knight Riders squad with list of players retained, released and bought at IPL 2025 mega auction
NEW DELHI: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up to chase a fourth IPL title and further solidify their legacy as one of the most successful franchises in the tournament’s history. Following their impressive third championship victory in 2024, where they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad with an emphatic 8-wicket win under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, the team has undergone notable changes in preparation for IPL 2025.
Despite leading KKR to their third IPL trophy, Iyer was not retained for the 2025 season. Heading into the IPL 2025 auction, KKR made the strategic decision to retain six key players: Rinku Singh (Rs 13 crore), Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell (Rs 12 crore each), along with Harshit Rana and Ramandeep Singh (Rs 4 crore each). With a solid Rs 51 crore remaining in their purse, KKR had ample flexibility to strengthen their squad for the new season.On Day 1 of the auction, KKR made headlines by purchasing star all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for a record-breaking Rs 23.75 crore, making him the most expensive all-rounder in IPL history. The franchise also bolstered their batting lineup by signing explosive opener and wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock for Rs 3.6 crore. Additionally, KKR strengthened their bowling unit by acquiring South African pacer Anrich Nortje for Rs 6.5 crore, alongside retaining Vaibhav Arora.
Full List of Players Bought by KKR in IPL 2025 Auction: Names, Prices, and Squad Updates
Players bought by KKR in IPL 2025 Auction
Rinku Singh (Retained)
Varun Chakravarthy (Retained)
Sunil Narine (Retained)
Andre Russell (Retained)
Harshit Rana (Retained)
Ramandeep Singh (Retained)
Venkatesh Iyer: 23.75 crore INR
Quinton de Kock: 3.60 crore INR
Rahmanullah Gurbaz: 2 crore INR
Anrich Nortje: 6.5 crore INR
Angkrish Raghuvanshi: 3 crore INR
Vaibhav Arora: 1.80 crore INR
Mayank Markande: 30 lakh INR
Rovman Powell: 1.50 crore INR
Manish Pandey: 75 lakh INR
Spencer Johnson: 2.80 crore INR
Luvnith Sisodia: 30 Lakh INR
Ajinkya Rahane: 1.5 Crore INR
Anukul Roy: 40 Lakh INR
Moeen Ali: 2 Crore INR
Umran Malik: 75 Lakh INR
Full List of Retained Players by KKR
Sunil Narine
Rinku Singh
Varun Chakravarthy
Andre Russell
Ramandeep Singh
Harshit Rana
Full List of Released Players by KKR
Shreyas Iyer
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Nitish Rana
Sherfane Rutherford
Phil Salt
KS Bharat
Manish Pandey
Angkrish Raghuvanshi
Anukul Roy
Venkatesh Iyer
Suyash Sharma
Allah Ghazanfar
Dushmantha Chameera
Sakib Hussain
Vaibhav Arora
Mitchell Starc
Chetan Sakariya
Kolkata Knight Riders full squad, IPL 2025: Overview
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with their eyes firmly set on securing a fourth IPL title, have assembled a formidable and well-balanced squad for the 2025 season. Fresh off their remarkable triumph in 2024, the franchise has retained its core players, including proven match-winners like Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell. Their strategic decision to hold on to Venkatesh Iyer for a record Rs 23.75 crore underscores their commitment to maintaining a strong all-rounder unit that has been a key factor in the team’s success over the years.With the addition of explosive wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock and the pace firepower of Anrich Nortje, KKR has ensured that both their batting and bowling departments are reinforced. De Kock’s experience at the top of the order and Nortje’s pace bowling skills bring added strength and depth to a squad already brimming with talent. Meanwhile, the inclusion of spinner Mayank Markande alongside the seasoned Sunil Narine adds depth to their spin options, further ensuring that KKR can handle any challenge that comes their way during the season.KKR’s auction strategy clearly indicates their intent to build a well-rounded team capable of challenging for the IPL 2025 title. With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, the Knight Riders’ approach is designed for long-term success. Their signings, including the powerful Rahmanullah Gurbaz and promising players like Angkrish Raghuvanshi, add further promise to the lineup.The team’s leadership, now without Shreyas Iyer, will be closely scrutinized as the franchise is yet to announce a new captain. However, with a dynamic team and plenty of depth, KKR is poised to make another serious run for the IPL trophy. Fans of the team will be hoping that the combination of youthful energy and seasoned experience leads them to another championship victory in IPL 2025.Additionally, the BCCI’s decision to announce IPL schedules for the next three seasons marks a significant change from the usual practice, providing teams with ample time to prepare. The IPL 2025 season is set to begin on March 14, with the final match scheduled for May 25.Kolkata Knight Riders Full Squad, IPL 2025: Analysis and Probable Playing XI
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have built a well-rounded squad for IPL 2025, blending their core of retained stars with impactful new signings. With a solid mix of experienced campaigners and promising talent, KKR looks poised to make a serious bid for a record-equaling fourth IPL title. The retention of key players like Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, and Andre Russell ensures stability in the team, while the addition of Venkatesh Iyer (Rs 23.75 crore) further strengthens their all-round capabilities.KKR’s batting unit features a formidable top order with Quinton de Kock and Ajinkya Rahane bringing experience and reliability, while Rinku Singh provides the finishing prowess. The bowling department is headlined by Varun Chakravarthy’s spin and Anrich Nortje’s express pace, complemented by Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora’s supporting roles. With Ramandeep Singh offering flexibility in the middle order and Sunil Narine continuing to be a vital all-round option, KKR’s lineup appears balanced and dynamic.KKR Team for IPL 2025, Probable Playing XI:
Position
Player Name
1
Quinton de Kock (wk)
2
Ajinkya Rahane
3
Venkatesh Iyer
4
Rinku Singh
5
Andre Russell
6
Sunil Narine
7
Ramandeep Singh
8
Harshit Rana
9
Anrich Nortje
10
Varun Chakravarthy
11
Vaibhav Arora
Frequently asked questions about Kolkata Knight Riders squad for IPL 2025
Who is the coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025?Chandrakant Pandit is the coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025.Who are the captaincy options for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025?Kolkata Knight Riders is yet to announce their captain for IPL 2025.Who is the mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025?Dwayne Bravo is the mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025.Who is the bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025?Bharat Arun is the bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025.
