IPL 2025 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Confirmed Right To Match (RTM) and Retained Players List

As the anticipation for the IPL 2025 mega auction builds, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the retention and Right to Match (RTM) rules, providing franchises with clear guidelines for squad composition. Each of the ten teams is permitted to retain a maximum of six players, including four regular retentions and two RTM cards. The regulations also stipulate that one of the retained players must be from the uncapped category.

With a total purse of INR 120 crore, teams must carefully strategize their retention choices, as retaining multiple players significantly reduces their available funds for the auction. Below is the structured retention cost framework based on the player category:

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) current squad

Here’s the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) IPL 2024 squad:

Five Players That KKR Might Retain Ahead of IPL 2025 Auction

As the defending champions of IPL 2024, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will be making some crucial decisions ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. With the retention and right-to-match (RTM) cards in place, the team management will carefully weigh their options in terms of retaining key players. While KKR has a solid core, there could be some unexpected retentions and surprising releases as they look to maintain their championship-winning squad balance and plan for future campaigns.

1. Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer’s leadership was pivotal in KKR’s triumphant IPL 2024 campaign, guiding the team to their third title. His composed presence on the field, coupled with sharp tactical acumen, provided the franchise with the stability and vision they needed to navigate a competitive season.

Iyer not only excelled as captain but also stood out as a dependable middle-order batsman, consistently anchoring the innings when the team found itself in challenging positions. More than just a captain, the Mumbai-based cricketer is the glue that holds KKR’s batting lineup together. His calm under pressure and his experience in managing different match situations make him indispensable for the franchise.

2. Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh has been one of KKR’s greatest finds, evolving into one of the finest finishers in the Indian cricket setup. His fearless approach and ability to handle pressure have made him a crucial part of the Knight Riders’ middle order. The latter has repeatedly delivered match-winning performances, often rescuing KKR from challenging situations with his explosive hitting in the final overs.

Rinku’s consistency and ability to chase down steep targets have cemented his reputation as one of the best finishers in the game today, making him an invaluable asset for KKR ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.

3. Mitchell Starc

Acquired by KKR for a record-breaking INR 24.75 crore at the previous auction, Mitchell Starc delivered on the high expectations with remarkable performances throughout the season. The Australian seamer was instrumental in KKR’s title-winning campaign, consistently taking wickets at crucial moments.

His most defining performance came in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), where his lethal bowling spell turned the match in KKR’s favor. The 34-year-old’s ability to dominate both at the start and in the death overs makes him an irreplaceable asset, positioning him as a likely candidate for retention.

4. Varun Chakravarthy

KKR has long been known for its knack for nurturing mystery spinners, and Varun Chakaravarthy is a shining example of its success in this area. Over the past few seasons, the leg break spinner has emerged as one of the most reliable and effective spinners in the IPL. His standout performance in the 2024 season, where he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker with 21 wickets in 15 games, solidified his place as a vital cog in KKR’s bowling attack.

Known for his mysterious variations and accuracy under pressure, the 33-year-old consistently delivered in crucial moments, often breaking partnerships and turning games in KKR’s favor. With his remarkable form and KKR’s emphasis on spin, retaining Chakaravarthy will be essential in maintaining the team’s bowling depth and variety ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.

5. Andre Russell (RTM)

Andre Russell, a long-standing KKR stalwart, may be brought back using the RTM card. Despite an up-and-down performance in recent seasons due to injury concerns, the Carribean’s potential as a game-changer remains undeniable.

His ability to single-handedly change the course of a match with both bat and ball has often been the difference between victory and defeat for KKR. Retaining the 36-year-old would allow KKR to maintain a balance in both their batting and bowling departments, provided he stays fit and firing.

Also READ – IPL 2025 Mega Auction Date, Time, Venue, Live Streaming Details, and Key Players to Watch

FAQ

How many players can be retained in IPL 2025?

The BCCI’s announcement made that a team can retain a maximum of six players. A maximum of four players will be retained and two using the Right To Match card.

Who will lead Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2025?

Shreyas Iyer will likely be retained and will lead Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2025.

Who will KKR retain in IPL 2025?

Sunrisers will retain Shreyas Iyer, Rinku Singh, Mitchell Starc, Varun Chakravarthy, and Andre Russell ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

How many RTM cards are in IPL 2025?

The latest IPL rules indicate that an IPL franchise can only keep a maximum of six players, either directly or through RTM cards. If they keep four players, they can use two RTM cards, while releasing two players allows them to use four RTM cards at the IPL 2025 super auction.

When will the IPL 2025 mega auction be held?

The IPL 2025 mega auction will take place between December 2024 and January 2025.

Also READ – IPL 2025 Mumbai Indians (MI) Confirmed Right To Match (RTM) and Retained Players List