No team wants to release a captain who led them to the trophy, but it looks like IPL 2024-winning captain Shreyas Iyer may see the release slip by KKR. Speculation suggests that we may not see Iyer playing for KKR in IPL 2025. Several reasons could be driving this speculation. First, his recent performances have been underwhelming, which may lead the team to consider omitting him. Although KKR won the IPL, they will be under pressure to perform again more better, making it interesting to see how they handle their squad decisions. The team has time until the 31st to decide whom to retain and whom to release. But what if KKR doesn’t retain him? See three teams that may opt for Shreyas Iyer if KKR releases him.
Teams that may target Shreyas Iyer in the IPL 2025 mega auction
Mumbai Indians
Not very long ago, rumors came that MI was looking to acquire Shreyas Iyer and was set to trade for him. However, these claims turned out to be incorrect, as there is currently no trade window available for this process to take place. Moreover, MI officials have denied all such rumors. Yet, the chances may become real with Rohit Sharma’s retention still under scrutiny, making things interesting. So, what will happen if Sharma doesn’t make it into the team? There will be a clear vacancy for a top-order batter, which Shreyas Iyer could fill. Since the five-time champions know that Iyer understands the Mumbai ground well, we could see MI going after Iyer.
Punjab Kings
The team that is looking for its first IPL triumph, Punjab Kings, can rightly feel that their ship is sinking. We could expect PBKS to make many changes, especially since their batting faced criticism last season. Players like Jonny Bairstow and Jitesh Sharma may be released, although nothing has been confirmed yet. If PBKS is looking to revamp, they may also consider a new captain, and who would be better than the IPL 2024 champions’ skipper? They may go for Shreyas Iyer.
Lucknow Super Giants
Last but not least, Lucknow Super Giants, who also faced turmoil last season, are expected to make a few changes, especially regarding KL Rahul’s place in the camp. This looks difficult, as he had a poor outing as captain with seven losses and seven wins. His form also came under scrutiny with the bat, and it wasn’t a good season for them in IPL 2024. Now, it will be interesting to see whether they retain KL Rahul or not. If they release him, they can go for a batter like Shreyas Iyer, who can provide similar attributes as far as batting is concerned. Also, since Iyer’s strike rate is comparatively better, he could make things easier for this champion batter.
