In a significant development ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders CEO Venky Mysore has offered insights into the release of their star all-rounder, Venkatesh Iyer. Iyer, who was a record-breaking INR 23.75 crore purchase in the 2025 mega-auction, is now available for bidding after a disappointing season. He remains a prime candidate in the INR 2 crore base price bracket, sought after by teams for his potential as a top-order batsman and an all-rounder. With only 77 player slots to be filled by all teams in the upcoming December 16 auction in Abu Dhabi, competition for players of Iyer’s caliber is expected to be fierce.
Iyer’s form during IPL 2025 was a major reason for his release, with the player scoring just 142 runs in 11 matches and not contributing significantly with the ball. Mysore alluded to the psychological impact of a record price tag, stating, ‘Maybe it did (grins), and it weighed (on Venkatesh).’ He explained that KKR’s decision-making process involves maximizing flexibility and strategic options, especially in the context of a mini-auction. The release, he clarified, was a strategic move influenced by auction dynamics, allowing the franchise to rebuild and adapt, rather than solely a reflection of Iyer’s talent or past performances.