KKR Preview 2025
The new season of IPL 2025 is just around the corner, and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up to defend their title after a triumphant campaign in 2024. The team has already kicked off its preparations with a week-long training camp in Mumbai, focusing on domestic players and building early momentum ahead of the tournament.
As fans eagerly await the team’s lineup and performance, they can explore legal cricket betting sites in India to bet on Kolkata Knight Riders and enhance their IPL experience. As anticipation builds, KKR is poised to face stiff competition, but their determination and strong squad make them a contender for the championship once again.
About KKR
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are one of the most iconic franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the vibrant city of Kolkata, West Bengal. Established in 2008, KKR is owned by Knight Riders Sports Private Limited and has a strong fan base, thanks to its association with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The team’s home ground is the historic Eden Gardens, which boasts a seating capacity of 68,000 and is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere during matches.
Over the years, KKR has achieved significant success, winning the IPL title three times (in 2012, 2014, and 2024). The team is currently coached by Chandrakant Pandit, with Ajinkya Rahane as captain. Known for their resilience and strategic gameplay, KKR enters the 2025 season aiming to defend their title and add another championship.
Below is a summary of key details about the Kolkata Knight Riders:
| 🧾 Official name | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| 🌎 Country | India (Kolkata, West Bengal) |
| 📅 Date of establishment | 2008 |
| 🤵 Owner | Knight Riders Sports Private Limited |
| 🏟️ Home stadium | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| 🏏 Coach | Chandrakant Pandit |
| 🧢 Captain | Ajinkya Rahane |
| ✔️ IPL wins | 2012, 2014, 2024 |
Players List with Price for 2025
For the 2025 season, KKR has assembled a well-balanced squad consisting of experienced players and emerging talents. The team features 8 batters (including wicketkeeper-batters), 5 all-rounders, and 8 bowlers, ensuring depth and versatility across all departments. With Chandrakant Pandit as head coach and Ajinkya Rahane leading the side as captain, KKR is poised to deliver another strong performance this year.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the Kolkata Knight Riders player list for IPL 2025:
| № | Player Name | IPL Debut | Matches Played | Role | Price (INR) |
| Batters | |||||
| 1 | Rinku Singh | 2017 | 46 | Batter | INR 13 crore |
| 2 | Quinton de Kock | 2013 | 107 | WK-Batter | 3.60 crore INR |
| 3 | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | 2023 | 14 | WK-Batter | INR 2 crore |
| 4 | Angkrish Raghuvanshi | 2024 | 10 | Batter | INR 3 crore |
| 5 | Rovman Powell | 2022 | 27 | Batter | INR 1.50 crore |
| 6 | Manish Pandey | 2008 | 171 | Batter | INR 75 lakh |
| 7 | Luvnith Sisodia | – | 0 | WK-Batter | INR 30 Lakh |
| 8 | Ajinkya Rahane | 2008 | 185 | Batter | INR 1.5 Crore |
| All Rounders | |||||
| 9 | Venkatesh Iyer | 2021 | 51 | All-Rounder | INR 23.75 crore |
| 10 | Anukul Roy | 2019 | 11 | All-Rounder | INR 40 Lakh |
| 11 | Moeen Ali | 2018 | 67 | All-Rounder | INR 2 Crore |
| 12 | Ramandeep Singh | 2022 | 20 | All-Rounder | INR 4 crore |
| 13 | Andre Russell | 2012 | 127 | All-Rounder | INR 12 crore |
| Bowlers | |||||
| 14 | Anrich Nortje | 2020 | 46 | Bowler | INR 6.5 crore |
| 15 | Vaibhav Arora | 2022 | 20 | Bowler | INR 1.80 crore |
| 16 | Mayank Markande | 2018 | 37 | Bowler | INR 30 lakh |
| 17 | Spencer Johnson | 2024 | 5 | Bowler | INR 2.80 crore |
| 18 | Umran Malik | 2021 | 26 | Bowler | INR 75 Lakh |
| 19 | Harshit Rana | 2022 | 21 | Bowler | INR 4 crore |
| 20 | Sunil Narine | 2012 | 177 | Bowler | INR 12 crore |
| 21 | Varun Chakravarthy | 2019 | 71 | Bowler | INR 12 crore |
2025 IPL Auction: Kolkata Knight Riders Team Composition
Kolkata Knight Riders approached the 2025 IPL auction with a strategic plan to rebuild their squad while retaining a strong core. As the defending champions, KKR retained six key players, spending INR 57 crore from their total purse of INR 120 crore.
Among the retained players are Rinku Singh (INR 13 crore), Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Varun Chakravarthy (INR 12 crore each), along with uncapped Indian talents Harshit Rana and Ramandeep Singh (INR 4 crore each). These players form the backbone of the team as they aim to secure a record-equalling fourth IPL title.
At the auction, Kolkata Knight Riders made several high-profile signings to address specific team needs and strengthen their squad for the 2025 IPL season. Here’s why these players were targeted:
- Venkatesh Iyer (INR 23.75 crore). KKR went all out to bring back Iyer after an intense bidding war with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Iyer, who debuted for KKR in 2021, has scored 1,326 runs in 51 IPL matches at a strike rate of 137.13. He was instrumental in KKR’s 2024 title win, scoring an unbeaten 52 in the final.
- Quinton de Kock (INR 3.6 crore). The South African wicketkeeper-batter brings vast experience, having played over 100 IPL matches. Known for his explosive starts, De Kock holds the record for the highest individual IPL score in 2022 (140).
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (INR 2 crore). The Afghan batter is a rising star with a reputation for aggressive hitting at the top of the order. Gurbaz’s fearless approach and ability to perform under pressure add depth to KKR’s batting lineup.
- Anrich Nortje (INR 6.5 crore). One of the fastest bowlers in world cricket, Nortje consistently clocks speeds above 150 km/h. With 46 IPL matches under his belt, he has proven his ability to take wickets in high-pressure situations, making him a key asset for KKR’s pace attack.
- Angkrish Raghuvanshi (INR 3 crore). A promising young talent from India, Raghuvanshi has impressed with his performances in domestic cricket. His potential as a middle-order batter makes him a strategic pick for the future.
These strategic moves highlight KKR’s ambition to maintain its dominance in the league. With a well-rounded Kolkata Knight Riders player list featuring experienced stars and emerging talent, the team is poised to mount another strong title challenge in IPL 2025.
Kolkata Knight Riders Captain
Kolkata Knight Riders have announced Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for the IPL 2025 season, with Venkatesh Iyer serving as his vice-captain. Rahane, a seasoned batsman and former captain of the Indian national team, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has previously captained Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals in the IPL, showcasing his leadership skills and ability to perform under pressure.
Throughout his career, Ajinkya Rahane has demonstrated exceptional batting prowess, scoring over 6,000 runs in Test cricket and nearly 5,000 in ODIs. His calm and composed demeanor on the field makes him an ideal candidate to lead KKR in their title defense. Rahane’s appointment marks a new chapter for KKR, following the departure of Shreyas Iyer, who led the team to their third IPL title in 2024. With Ajinkya Rahane as the captain, KKR aims to continue their winning streak and make a strong impact in IPL 2025.
Head Coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Chandrakant Pandit is a renowned Indian cricket coach and former player, born on September 30, 1961. He played for India in five Test matches and 36 One Day Internationals between 1986 and 1992, primarily as a wicket-keeper batsman. Pandit made his Test debut against England at Headingley in 1986 and was part of India’s World Cup squad in 1987. He also contributed to India’s victory in the 1988 Asia Cup.
After retiring from cricket, Pandit transitioned into coaching, achieving significant success with various teams. He founded a cricket academy at his alma mater, Hansraj Morarji Public School, and coached the Mumbai cricket team. Notably, he led Vidarbha to two consecutive Ranji Trophy titles in 2018 and 2019. In 2022, Pandit guided Madhya Pradesh to their first-ever Ranji Trophy victory.
In the same year, Pandit was appointed as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League. Under his leadership, KKR won their third IPL title in 2024, marking a significant milestone in his coaching career. Pandit is known for his strategic approach and ability to inspire his teams to achieve success through disciplined and focused performances.
IPL Team History
Established in 2008, KKR has evolved into a fan favorite, known for its thrilling performances and strategic team management. Initially, KKR faced disappointing results, but their fortunes changed with the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as captain in 2011. Under his leadership, the team reached the playoffs in 2011 and secured their first IPL title in 2012 by defeating Chennai Super Kings. KKR repeated this success in 2014, winning their second title by defeating Kings Punjab.
In recent years, KKR has continued to show promise. After Gambhir’s departure in 2018, Dinesh Karthik took over as captain, leading the team to the playoffs. Later, under Eoin Morgan’s captaincy, KKR reached their third IPL final in 2021. Before the 2024 season, Shreyas Iyer was appointed captain, and under his leadership, KKR secured their third IPL title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final. This victory marked a significant milestone, as KKR topped the league stage for the first time in their history and dominated the playoffs with an impressive eight-wicket win in the final.
KKR’s success in IPL 2024 was highlighted by their consistent performance throughout the season, with a strong batting lineup and a potent bowling attack. The team’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure was key to their championship win. With three titles under their belt, KKR is now among the top teams in the IPL, alongside Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, who have won five titles each.
Statistics and Facts about KKR in the IPL Tournament
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been one of the most exciting teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since their inception in 2008. Over the years, KKR has experienced a rollercoaster of performances, from struggling in the early seasons to becoming a dominant force in the league. The team’s journey has been marked by two significant championship wins in 2012 and 2014 under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir. After a few inconsistent years, KKR regained their winning form in 2024, securing their third IPL title under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer.
Below is a detailed breakdown of KKR’s performance over the years, highlighting their wins, losses, and overall standings in each season of the IPL:
| Year | Total | Wins | Losses | No result | Tied and Won | Tied and Lost | Win % | Position | Summary |
| 2008 | 13 | 6 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 46.15 | 6th | League stage |
| 2009 | 13 | 3 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 23.07 | 8th | League stage |
| 2010 | 14 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 50.00 | 6th | League stage |
| 2011 | 15 | 8 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 53.33 | 4th | Play-offs |
| 2012 | 17 | 12 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 70.59 | 1st | Champions |
| 2013 | 16 | 6 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 37.50 | 7th | League stage |
| 2014 | 16 | 11 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 68.75 | 1st | Champions |
| 2015 | 13 | 7 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 53.85 | 5th | League stage |
| 2016 | 15 | 8 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 53.33 | 4th | Play-offs |
| 2017 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 56.25 | 3rd | Play-offs |
| 2018 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 56.25 | 3rd | Play-offs |
| 2019 | 14 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 42.86 | 5th | League stage |
| 2020 | 14 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 50.00 | 5th | League stage |
| 2021 | 17 | 9 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 52.94 | 2nd | Runners-up |
| 2022 | 14 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 42.86 | 7th | League stage |
| 2023 | 14 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 42.86 | 7th | League stage |
| 2024 | 16 | 11 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 68.75 | 1st | Champions |
| Total | 252 | 130 | 117 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 51.59 | 3 titles | |
How to Bet on KKR in IPL 2025?
The Indian Premier League is one of the most popular cricket tournaments not only in India itself but also around the world. Fans can place a wide variety of bets on the winner, total, the best pitcher and more. If you want to support KKR in the seventeenth season of IPL, then:
Step 1
Choose a reliable and trusted bookmaker;
Step 2
Register by providing all the requested information;
Step 3
Deposit funds into your account by selecting one of the payment methods available on the bookmaker’s website or app;
Step 4
Go to the betting section of the bookmaker’s platform, select the required game and team, as well as the type of bet;
Step 3
Place a bet by depositing a certain amount of money and wait for payment confirmation.
KKR Betting Tips
When betting on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) matches, a strategic approach can enhance your chances of success. As the defending IPL champions, KKR boasts a strong squad with a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Here are some essential tips to consider:
- Analyze Team Form. Review KKR’s recent performances, such as their dominant 2024 season where they secured their third IPL title.
- Monitor Player Contributions. Keep an eye on consistent performers like Rinku Singh and Andre Russell, who were instrumental in KKR’s success.
- Check Kolkata Knight Riders betting odds. Compare odds across platforms to find the best value for your bets.
- Stay Updated on Team News. Track injuries or lineup changes that could impact match outcomes.
- Diversify Betting Markets. Explore options like top run-scorer or top wicket-taker, rather than just focusing on match winners.
- Set a Budget. Establish a clear betting budget to ensure responsible gambling.
- Follow Expert Predictions. Consult professional analyses for insights into upcoming matches.
KKR Betting Odds
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to begin their IPL 2025 campaign as the defending champions after a dominant performance in 2024, where they secured their third IPL title. With significant changes in their squad and leadership, KKR’s betting odds for IPL 2025 currently stand at around 7.50, reflecting their potential to contend for a fourth title despite facing stiff competition from teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
When analyzing Kolkata Knight Riders betting odds, it’s important to consider their recent form and squad dynamics. In 2024, KKR showcased exceptional consistency, finishing first in the league stage and defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final by eight wickets. However, with Shreyas Iyer no longer part of the team, KKR’s ability to replicate their success will depend on key players like Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, and Andre Russell stepping up once again.
IPL 2025 Schedule for KKR
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to kick off their IPL 2025 campaign with high expectations after their triumphant 2024 season. The team will begin their title defense against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, marking the opening match of the tournament. This season, KKR will play a total of 14 league matches, including double-headers and high-stakes clashes against teams like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The league stage will conclude with an exciting rematch against RCB on May 17 in Bengaluru. Kolkata will also host the IPL final on May 25, giving KKR a unique opportunity to defend their title on home soil.
Below is the complete schedule for KKR in IPL 2025, detailing match dates, opponents, venues, and timings:
| Match No | Match Day | Date | Day | Start | Home | Away | Venue |
| 1 | 1 | 22.03.2025 | Sat | 19:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Kolkata |
| 6 | 5 | 26.03.2025 | Wed | 19:30 | Rajasthan Royals | Kolkata Knight Riders | Guwahati |
| 12 | 10 | 31.03.2025 | Mon | 19:30 | Mumbai Indians | Kolkata Knight Riders | Mumbai |
| 15 | 13 | 03.04.2025 | Thu | 19:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Kolkata |
| 19 | 16 | 06.04.2025 | Sun | 15:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Lucknow Super Giants | Kolkata |
| 25 | 21 | 11.04.2025 | Fri | 19:30 | Chennai Super Kings | Kolkata Knight Riders | Chennai |
| 31 | 25 | 15.04.2025 | Tue | 19:30 | Punjab Kings | Kolkata Knight Riders | New Chandigarh |
| 39 | 31 | 21.04.2025 | Mon | 19:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Gujarat Titans | Kolkata |
| 44 | 36 | 26.04.2025 | Sat | 19:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Punjab Kings | Kolkata |
| 48 | 39 | 29.04.2025 | Tue | 19:30 | Delhi Capitals | Kolkata Knight Riders | Delhi |
| 53 | 44 | 04.05.2025 | Sun | 15:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Rajasthan Royals | Kolkata |
| 57 | 47 | 07.05.2025 | Wed | 19:30 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Chennai Super Kings | Kolkata |
| 60 | 50 | 10.05.2025 | Sat | 19:30 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Kolkata Knight Riders | Hyderabad |
| 68 | 57 | 17.05.2025 | Sat | 19:30 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Kolkata Knight Riders | Bengaluru |
| 71 | 60 | 20.05.2025 | Tue | 19:30 | Qualifier 1 | Hyderabad | |
| 72 | 61 | 21.05.2025 | Wed | 19:30 | Eliminator | Hyderabad | |
| 73 | 63 | 23.05.2025 | Fri | 19:30 | Qualifier 2 | Kolkata | |
| 74 | 65 | 25.05.2025 | Sun | 19:30 | Final | Kolkata |
FAQ about KKR Squad
1️⃣ Who is the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025?
The captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025 is Ajinkya Rahane.
2️⃣ Who is the coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025?
The coach of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025 is Chandrakant Pandit.
3️⃣ What is the total amount left under the KKR team player list?
The KKR team has 21 players remaining, with 6 retained.
4️⃣ How many players have been released this year under KKR?
How many players have been released this year under KKR? This year, KKR has released 17 players.
5️⃣ Who owns the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)?
The Kolkata Knight Riders are owned by Knight Riders Sports Private Limited.
