Big Blow Before IPL: ₹23.75 Crore Player Injured in Live Match

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): With less than 60 days to go for the start of IPL 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are facing an unexpected challenge as star player Venkatesh Iyer has sustained an injury. Iyer, who was bought for a hefty ₹23.75 crore in the IPL auction, was injured during a Ranji Trophy match while representing Madhya Pradesh, prompting worries for both the team and KKR.

Iyer, a crucial player in KKR’s successful campaign in the previous season, was expected to play a key role in the upcoming IPL. However, during a match between Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, Iyer suffered a leg injury, which appeared to be related to his hamstring. Despite experiencing pain, Iyer showed remarkable resilience by returning to the crease after Madhya Pradesh lost three more quick wickets.

The left-handed batter played a vital knock of 42 runs, helping his team reach a total of 160. However, his injury has raised serious concerns for KKR ahead of the IPL. It is still unclear how severe the injury is and whether Iyer will be fit to bat in the second innings of the match. If the injury proves to be serious, KKR may have to begin the 2025 season without one of their star players, which would be a significant setback. Fans and the franchise will be keeping a close eye on Iyer’s recovery as the start of the IPL approaches.