Emotional Return for Iyer After KKR Exit
Saturday’s clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Eden Gardens will be more than just another IPL 2025 fixture. For Shreyas Iyer, it marks a highly emotional return to the ground where he lifted the IPL trophy last year as KKR captain. After not being retained by KKR despite his title-winning season, Iyer now leads PBKS, carrying what many feel is a burning sense of unfinished business.
While KKR did attempt to reacquire Iyer in the auction, PBKS secured his services with a record-breaking INR 26.75 crore bid.
Gavaskar: “It Will Hurt Him, He Has Points to Prove”
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar weighed in on the situation, stating that Iyer will be “hurt” by KKR’s decision and will be motivated to prove himself.
“The captain of a winning team not being retained will hurt. No question about it. That will hurt,” Gavaskar said.
Even though the massive auction price offers some consolation, Gavaskar insists it won’t erase the sting of being released:
“Nobody wants to be left out. He will have half a dozen points to prove,” Gavaskar added.
Iyer already orchestrated a dramatic low-scoring victory against KKR earlier this season at Mullanpur, and all eyes will be on him as he returns to Kolkata.
Michael Clarke: “KKR Can Bounce Back Strong”
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke believes KKR won’t dwell on their earlier defeat to PBKS.
“I think that game will be left in the memory for KKR and they won’t want to talk about it ever again. KKR is underperforming, but if they get a roll on, they are so destructive,” Clarke commented.
He compared KKR to Mumbai Indians, suggesting that both teams can be formidable once they build momentum.
Must-Win Match for Both Teams
Both KKR and PBKS find themselves in a tight race for playoff qualification. With stakes high and emotions even higher, Saturday’s match at Eden Gardens promises intense drama — and all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer as he walks onto the ground where he once reigned supreme.
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