New Delhi [India], April 7: Kolkata Knight Riders’ vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer opened up about the mental and emotional evolution of his IPL journey, emphasizing the value of staying grounded and present amid the glitz, pressure, and expectations that come with the world’s most celebrated T20 league.
In a candid conversation on JioHotstar’s special show Gen Bold, Iyer spoke about the significance of embracing the moment rather than dwelling on past performances or future results.
“One thing I’ve learned from playing IPL is to take it one game at a time— or rather, one moment at a time… Over the years, I’ve developed the mindset that only today’s moment, today’s match, and today’s practice matter,” Iyer shared.
The 29-year-old all-rounder, who played a pivotal role in KKR’s championship run last season with 370 runs, including four fifties, was retained for a whopping Rs 23.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, underscoring the franchise’s faith in his abilities.
A Tough Start, But Committed to the Cause
This season began on a rocky note for Iyer, with early outings yielding just 3 and 6 runs. However, he bounced back confidently at Eden Gardens against Hyderabad, reminding fans of his clutch-hitter potential. Despite the big price tag and added pressure of a leadership role, Iyer is focused on the bigger picture:
“It’s tough to stay in the present, especially in a tournament like the IPL where expectations run high. But that’s where your real challenge lies—as much mental as it is physical.”
A Cricketer with a Scholar’s Mind
Off the field, Venkatesh continues to evolve in ways few expect from a cricketer in the peak of his career. Known for his academic pursuits, Iyer revealed his love for learning and even hinted at a scholarly ambition post-cricket.
“I’ve always been fond of academics—not due to pressure but because it’s something I truly enjoy. Working on a PhD might just be a cool flex when I retire! But more importantly, it helps me make smarter decisions, on and off the field.”
His passion for academics provides a unique balance, serving as a “productive switch-off” from cricket’s demands.
Focused on the Now, Eyes on the Title
As the vice-captain of a star-studded KKR squad, Venkatesh Iyer continues to mature into a leader who brings both composure and character to the side. With the defending champions aiming to retain their title, Iyer’s blend of groundedness, strategic acumen, and versatility may prove pivotal.