Star all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer gave massive injury scare to reigning IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders and all KKR fans after he twisted his ankle during the Ranji Trophy match between Madhya Pradesh and Kerala at the St Xavier's College Ground, Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram on January 23 (Thursday). Iyer had a great deal of responsibility to lead his team to a respectable total as he came in to bat when they were at 49/4 in 17.2 overs.
Venkatesh Iyer twists his ankle
But after only three deliveries, he hurt his ankle while batting, which put a sudden stop to his innings. As the team's physio attended to him, the all-rounder collapsed on the field in agonizing pain. Later, he was seen hobbling off the field with the physiotherapist.
Iyer was spotted sitting in the dugout later in the game, wearing just one pad, and resting his injured leg on a chair for support. KKR supporters are concerned about Iyer's injuries because the team purchased him for an incredible Rs 23.75 crore during the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025) mega auction.
However, he later returned to bat and scored 42 runs off 80 balls. It was a crucial knock as it helped Madhya Pradesh post 160 runs.
Iyer crucial for KKR
The franchise released the all-rounder before the auction because he was unable to put his name among the six retentions. However, to get him on their squad KKR engaged in a fierce bidding battle with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Iyer had a successful 2024 season and contributed significantly to his team's batting performance, amassing 370 runs from 15 games (13 innings) with a strike rate of 158.79 and an average of 46.25, including four fifties. His departure could therefore have a significant negative impact on the reigning champions in the forthcoming season. To the joy of KKR supporters, Iyer was even spotted donning both of his pads, raising the prospect of his coming back to the field. He is also considered as one of the candidates to lead the KKR side in IPL 2025 season among other prospects by many experts.