### KKR Appoints Ajinkya Rahane as Captain for IPL 2025: A New Era Begins The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the defending champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), have made a significant leadership change ahead of the 2025 season. Ajinkya Rahane has been appointed as the new captain, taking over from Shreyas Iyer, who has left the team. Alongside Rahane, Venkatesh Iyer has been named vice-captain. This decision comes as KKR prepares to defend their title, with their first match scheduled against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22, 2025. The franchise's CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed confidence in the new leadership duo, highlighting Rahane's experience and Iyer's dedication to the team [https://www.moneycontrol.com/sports/cricket/ipl/kkr-captain-announced-kolkata-knight-riders-appoint-ajinkya-rahane-as-skipper-for-ipl-2025-venkatesh-iyer-named-vice-captain-article-12955033.html]. ### Leadership Transition and Team Structure 1. **Captaincy Change**: Ajinkya Rahane replaces Shreyas Iyer as captain of KKR for IPL 2025. 2. **Vice-Captain Appointment**: Venkatesh Iyer has been appointed as the vice-captain, supporting Rahane in leadership duties. 3. **Team's Title Defense**: KKR aims to defend their championship title, having won the IPL three times previously. 4. **Upcoming Matches**: The team will kick off their season against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22, 2025. ### Rahane's Leadership Credentials and Fan Reactions - **Captaincy Record**: Rahane's previous captaincy experience in the IPL and domestic T20 leagues positions him as a seasoned leader. His appointment follows a successful stint in domestic cricket, where he showcased his leadership skills [https://www.insidesport.in/cricket/ajinkya-rahane-ipl-captaincy-record]. - **Fan Sentiment**: The decision to appoint Rahane has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some expressing dissatisfaction and questioning his inclusion in the playing XI [https://www.ibtimes.co.in/shouldnt-be-playing-11-ajinka-rahane-kkrs-skipper-ipl-2025-venkatesh-iyer-deputy-fans-880287]. ### Summary of Findings - **Leadership Change**: KKR has appointed Ajinkya Rahane as captain and Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain for IPL 2025, marking a new chapter for the franchise. - **Expectations**: With Rahane's experience and Iyer's commitment, KKR aims to successfully defend their title in the upcoming season. - **Fan Engagement**: The leadership change has elicited varied responses from fans, indicating a need for the team to address concerns and build support. In conclusion, KKR's strategic decision to appoint Ajinkya Rahane as captain reflects their ambition to maintain their competitive edge in the IPL. As the team prepares for the new season, the effectiveness of this leadership duo will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike [https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/ajinkya-rahane-to-lead-kolkata-knight-riders-in-ipl-2025-1475697].