Shreyas Iyer returns as KKR skipper; Rana named vice-captain

Shreyas Iyer, who missed the 2023 IPL due to injury, will be leading Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2024 season once again, KKR CEO Venky Mysore announced on Thursday. Nitish Rana, who led KKR last year, has been named as the vice-captain.

"It was indeed unfortunate that Shreyas missed IPL 2023 due to injury. We are delighted that he's back and at the helm as Captain. The way he has worked hard to recover from his injury and the form he has displayed is a testament to his character,” Mysore said in the KKR statement.

"We are also grateful that Nitish had agreed to step into Shreyas's shoes last season and did a great job. There's no doubt Nitish as Vice Captain, will support Shreyas in every possible way for the benefit of #TeamKKR"

With Gautam Gambhir returning to Kolkata Knight Riders as the mentor after leaving the franchise following the 2017 IPL, there will be some change in power dynamics. However, the appointment of Iyer has the full support of Gambhir. Iyer further stated that Nitish Rana did a great job as the skipper last season and he expects him to strengthen the leadership group further.

"I believe the last season presented us with several challenges, including my absence due to injury. Nitish did a great job not only filling in for me but also with his commendable leadership. I am delighted that KKR has named him Vice Captain. No doubt it will strengthen the leadership group," Iyer said.