'Rs 23 crore or Rs 20 lakh, my commitment stays unwavering', KKR's Venkatesh on dealing with high price tag pressure

New Delhi, April 7 (NationPress) Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer acknowledged that a significant price tag does bring its share of pressure. However, he emphasized that the financial aspects are beyond his influence, while his on-field performance is within his control. He remarked that whether he earns Rs 23 crore or Rs 20 lakh, his dedication to the team's success remains unchanged.

After KKR released Venkatesh following their IPL-winning season last year, they made a striking investment of Rs 23.75 crores to reacquire the all-rounder, triumphing in a competitive bidding process during the mega auction.

“Honestly, I’m not completely dismissing it - I’m a pragmatic individual. I recognize the pressure and the discussions surrounding the pricing. Yet, that is not something I can control. What I can control is the effort I invest to assist the team in winning, and that remains consistent - whether I'm earning Rs 23 crore or Rs 20 lakh.

“Once the tournament kicks off, my sole focus is to contribute in every possible way - not just with my bat and ball, but also in my new leadership capacity. Everything else will take care of itself,” Venkatesh expressed during the JioHotstar show 'Gen Bold'.

In anticipation of IPL 2025, KKR appointed Ajinkya Rahane as captain, with Venkatesh serving as his deputy. Reflecting on his leadership approach and how he supports his captain, both on and off the field, the all-rounder stated, “I believe every captain has a unique approach to the game. Having someone like Ajinkya in our squad, who I consider very composed and calm under pressure, is invaluable. My own leadership style is a bit more dynamic, which is the beauty of cricket - diverse skill sets and mindsets coming together for the team's benefit.

“Ajinkya has already taken the initiative to engage with players, and I've been in consistent dialogue with him about the team - not only on-field strategies but also life off the field. I’m thrilled to be playing under his captaincy.”

He also discussed the evolving team dynamics with DJ Bravo joining as a mentor after Gautam Gambhir's exit, commenting, “DJ Bravo brings a wealth of experience. As the most capped T20 player globally, he possesses extensive knowledge. Beyond the fun and enjoyment, he also has a strategically sharp mind. Therefore, it's up to us to leverage that. As players, we aspire to learn a lot from our coaches. To progress in our careers, we must absorb knowledge from them.”

“Gautam sir also had an intense phase, but he was tactically astute and maintained a comfortable atmosphere in the dressing room. That same comfortable environment persists, and I’m very excited to play under DJ,” he added.

Venkatesh made his IPL debut with KKR in 2021 and has played a vital role, accumulating significant runs for the franchise. During KKR's triumphant IPL campaign last season, he scored 370 runs, including four half-centuries.

Reflecting on his journey through the IPL years, he shared, “One valuable lesson I've learned is to take it one game at a time - or rather, one moment at a time. Staying present is crucial. I've learned this the hard way, and although it may sound simple, it is genuinely challenging to execute.”

“Over the years, I’ve cultivated the mindset that only today’s moment, today’s match, and today’s practice are significant. I strive not to dwell on the past or worry about the future,” he concluded.