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Aaron Finch's Shocking IPL Take: Why KKR Should Release Venkatesh Iyer

Aaron Finch has shared his blunt opinion on KKR's retention strategy. He believes the franchise is paying far too much for all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer. Finch points out that Iyer's role has become uncertain and his performances have been inconsistent. He suggests a smarter move would be to release Iyer and try to buy him back for a more balanced price.

Key Points: Aaron Finch Says KKR Overpaying for Venkatesh Iyer

  • Finch questions Iyer's high price tag versus his inconsistent role
  • Iyer was KKR's top scorer in their 2021 final and 2024 title runs
  • His 2025 season saw a dip with just 142 runs in 11 games
  • Suggests KKR release him to buy back at a more reasonable price
2 min read

Paying Rs 23.75 crore too high for player like Venkatesh Iyer: Aaron Finch ahead of IPL retention

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch argues KKR should release Venkatesh Iyer, calling his Rs 23.75 crore price tag too high for his inconsistent role.

"Paying Rs 23.75 crore is too high for a player like Venkatesh Iyer - Aaron Finch"

New Delhi, November 11

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has shared his thoughts on what should be Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) retention decision on all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Although the official list of retentions will be announced on Saturday, KKR are yet to reveal which players they plan to release. However, Finch believes the franchise should re-evaluate their approach toward Iyer's retention.

"Paying Rs 23.75 crore is too high for a player like Venkatesh Iyer, who has been used out of position as a middle-order batter without utilising his bowling," JioStar expert Finch said while analysing the team's possible moves.

He further highlighted Iyer's contribution to the side but pointed out that his role in the current setup has become uncertain.

"While Venkatesh Iyer has been a match-winner for KKR, being their top scorer in 2021 and helping them lift the trophy in 2024, his inconsistent role and high price tag don't align," Finch explained on JioStar.

In 2021, Venkatesh arrived as a storm, scoring 370 runs in ten games, which was his debut season, as KKR reached the final, but they lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

In their title-winning year in 2024, the southpaw again scored 370 runs. Things looked difficult in 2025, as he scored 142 runs in 11 games, with one fifty, at an average of 20.28.

The former Australian opener suggested that KKR could benefit from releasing Iyer and attempting to bring him back at a more balanced price point.

"KKR should consider releasing him to free up funds and potentially buy him back at a more reasonable price that matches his current role in the team," Finch added.

With the retention deadline nearing, eyes will be on KKR's final list and whether the franchise decides to retain one of their most impactful yet unpredictable performers.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
But Venkatesh Iyer won us the 2024 trophy! He's a match-winner on his day. Sometimes you have to pay for that X-factor. 🏆
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Arjun K
As a KKR fan, I'm torn. He's been brilliant in two seasons but terrible in others. Maybe Finch is right - release and buy back cheaper.
S
Sarah B
Why is an Australian expert telling Indian franchises what to do? Let KKR management decide based on their strategy and budget.
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Vikram M
The real issue is KKR not using him properly. He's an all-rounder but they only use his batting. Waste of talent and money! 🤦‍♂️
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Ananya R
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