Former India captain Anil Kumble believes Kolkata Knight Riders have made a big mistake by releasing key players Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt after they win the Indian Premier League 2024. Kamble warned that unless KKR understands the importance of retaining core players, it may be difficult for the three-time champions to remain a serious contender for the IPL title.
KKR loses key pillar of title-winning side
KKR lifted their third IPL trophy in 2024 with Iyer leading the way and Salt playing a vital role at the top. However, both players quickly moved on to new teams. Iyer joined Kings XI Punjab and led them to their first IPL final in almost a decade in his first season. Salter, meanwhile, moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he played a key role in their maiden IPL title win.
Kumble spoke on JioHotstar and questioned KKR’s decision to release two players.
“Two years ago, KKR won the IPL and lifted their third trophy. The two important cogs in this wheel were Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt. The duo played a key role in helping them win, but KKR let them go,” Kumble noted in a press release by JioHotstar.
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“They have not been consistent in retaining players. KKR took the wrong decision to let Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt go, which deprived them of an IPL-winning captain.”
Following this, KKR appointed Ajinkya Rahane as captain. While Kumble acknowledged Rahane’s experience, he pointed out that the veteran batsman is yet to win an IPL as captain.
“Yes, Ajinkya Rahane is a seasoned campaigner. He has led Mumbai in domestic cricket and led Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. But he is yet to win an IPL title as (captain),” Kumble said.
“Having a trophy-winning captain gives you an advantage. KKR gave up that advantage. They need to learn how to retain key players. Otherwise, they will continue to struggle and cannot be considered favorites,” the legendary spinner added.
Kamble praises Iyer’s leadership
The legendary spinner also praised Iyer’s leadership skills, calling him an underrated captain.
“Shreyas Iyer is definitely an underrated captain. It’s not easy to win a trophy in one team and then go to another. The management, atmosphere and team are different. The pressure is also different,” he pointed out.
“…He joins a new team that has not played a final in the last 10 years and in his first season with Kings XI Punjab, he took them to the final. I am impressed not only with his captaincy but the way he leads the team from the front.”
“Some players have to prove themselves every time. Shriyas is like that. Even after a performance, questions still arise. I think he is underrated, but he is a great leader.”
