IPL 2025: 3 Expensive KKR players who gave low returns

With significant investments in elite players, the Kolkata Knight Riders had high expectations going into the 2025 Indian Premier League. But as the season progressed, three of their most costly acquisitions fell short of expectations.

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The team's momentum was hampered by their patchy performances and lack of influence, which also highlighted the dangers of depending more on reputation than on recent performance or dependability.

Here are the 3 Expensive KKR players who gave low returns in IPL 2025:

1. Venkatesh Iyer

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Despite costing ₹23.75 crore, Venkatesh Iyer only managed to score 142 runs in 11 games with a strike rate of 139.22. He could not generate much more than a 60-run knock, his best effort to date. With only one half-century and a string of subpar scores, his performance was much below expectations.

Despite his reputation as a dual-threat player, he bowled just one over throughout the season. His limited role as an all-rounder and erratic batting made him one of the year's most disappointing high-profile picks.

2. Anrich Nortje

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Due to form issues and injuries, Anrich Nortje, who paid ₹6.5 crore, only played in two games and claimed one wicket.  In those games, he had an economy rate of 8.9 and delivered 17 dot balls, but he failed to create breakthroughs or pressure.

He was meant to lead the pace attack, but the team's bowling strategy was weakened by his poor form and lack of rhythm, and penetration.  He had minimal influence during his brief tenure, which was a significant letdown considering his salary and previous reputation.

3. Quinton de Kock

Quinton de Kock, who was signed for ₹3.6 crore, scored 152 runs in 6 games at an average of 21.71 and a strike rate of 129.91. In his only significant innings against RR, he scored 97* to chase down 151 runs.

In his one big knock, he showed promise, but his erratic performances made him an unpredictable asset. For someone of his level and experience, one standout performance was not enough to secure his place on the team.

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