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'Shahrukh Khan Sahab Won’t Allow It': Aakash Chopra on Why KKR Can't Release Shreyas Iyer Ahead Of IPL 2025

Aakash Chopra has urged KKR to retain Shreyas Iyer ahead of IPL 2025 [Source: @StarcKKR/x.com]Aakash Chopra has urged KKR to retain Shreyas Iyer ahead of IPL 2025 [Source: @StarcKKR/x.com]

In a sport where emotions often run as high as the stakes, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face a crucial decision ahead of the IPL 2025 auction—whether to retain their captain Shreyas Iyer or let him enter the auction pool. According to former Indian cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra, the answer is clear as day: KKR must retain their skipper at all costs.

Iyer, who led KKR to their third IPL title in 2024, has not only become the heart of the team but also holds immense sentimental value for the franchise and its co-owner, Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan.

Aakash Chopra Has Pushed for Shreyas Iyer's Retention in IPL 2025

Shreyas Iyer’s leadership steered KKR to an unforgettable IPL 2024 victory, as they defated SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final by eight wickets at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium. Lifting the coveted trophy for the third time, Iyer’s role as the captain was vital in this success.

He not only marshalled his troops with tactical brilliance but also contributed significantly with the bat, amassing 351 runs at an impressive average of 39.00 and a strike rate of 146.86 across 14 innings.

Aakash Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, stated the importance of retaining Iyer, suggesting that KKR must prioritize their skipper above all others.

"You want to firstly retain the captain, who is Shreyas Iyer. If 18 crores go, let them go because you won't get a captain. He is your winning captain. If Gautam (Gambhir) isn't there, retain your captain to maintain some continuity. There is no doubt that you should retain Shreyas Iyer," Chopra advised with conviction.



Shahrukh Khan’s Emotional Investment

In cricket, it's often said that the game is played not just with skill but with heart, and Aakash Chopra reiterated this sentiment, hinting that emotions will play a significant role in KKR’s decision. He believes that Shahrukh Khan, known for his emotional connect with the franchise and its players, won’t let Iyer slip away easily.

“You might get Shreyas Iyer for 18 crores using the RTM but never do that with the captain because eventually, this game is played by humans, and humans have hearts, and thereby emotions. Who will understand emotions better than Khan sahab (Shahrukh Khan)? So I feel he won't allow Shreyas Iyer to go," Chopra remarked.

Shreyas Iyer's influence goes beyond mere numbers. His ability to lead from the front along with his rapport with the team, makes him an indispensable asset for KKR. 

Chopra’s statement resonates with the idea that in a game like cricket, the intangible factors—such as leadership and emotional loyalty—often tip the scales.

Iyer’s Value to KKR

While Iyer was not KKR's top scorer in IPL 2024, his consistency and leadership set him apart. With 351 runs, he was the team's fourth-highest run-getter, showing his capability to perform under pressure. His strike rate of 146.86 made him a vital cog in KKR’s batting order, ensuring that the team stayed in the hunt during crucial moments.

Retaining a player like Iyer is not just about preserving talent—it’s about continuity and trust. As Chopra pointed out, KKR has not had a stable captain since the days of Gautam Gambhir, under whose leadership they lifted two IPL titles. By retaining Iyer, the franchise can ensure that they continue to build on the momentum from 2024.