Venkatesh Iyer 'emotionally hurt' after exclusion from KKR retention list, shares rationale

Venkatesh Iyer, who has been a crucial player for Kolkata Knight Riders in recent seasons, was noticeably absent from the team's retention list. In an interview with Revsportz, he commended KKR's retention choices but expressed his disappointment at not being included. "KKR has done a fantastic job with their retention. They have covered a significant number of overs and batting positions," he said. "I would have loved to be on that list. KKR has given me a major opportunity and I have always given my all for the team. Emotions play a big role beyond just cricket."

He also revealed that he was emotional when he learned that he hadn't been retained by KKR. "This is a family. There’s so much emotion. It kind of makes me teary-eyed that my name is not on the retention list but I am a practical guy. I understand how it works. I was on the receiving end of on being one of the retentions in 2022 and I knew how it feels to be retained and to be left out as well. So, I think KKR have had a great retention, really happy for that. I would love to be there and the doors are open. If I have a good auction then I might still end up playing for the team I love the most," he added.

In IPL 2024, Venkatesh scored 370 runs in 15 matches. He was purchased by KKR in the IPL 2021 auction. He was a key player for them that season, scoring 370 runs at an average of 41 and 129 strike rate, as they finished as runners-up.

On April 16, 2023, he got his maiden IPL ton vs Mumbai Indians, smacking 104 runs in 51 balls, becoming only the second KKR batter after Brendon McCullum to get a century. McCullum did it in the first match of IPL 2008, 15 years ago.