IPL 2025: 5 KKR players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries

The Kolkata Knight Riders had a stellar team going into the 2025 Indian Premier League and had made large purchases at the auction.  But not every well-known acquisition was included in the starting lineup.

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Due to form problems, squad combinations, or tactical considerations, a number of high-priced players missed most of the season.  Their little playing time raised concerns about the efficacy and balance of KKR's squad preparation.

Here are the 5 KKR players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries:

1. Venkatesh Iyer

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Despite playing 11 IPL 2025 games, Venkatesh Iyer was purchased by KKR for INR 23.75 crore. At a strike rate of 139.22 and an average of 35.50, he amassed 142 runs. His possibilities were hampered by his intermittent form and conditioning difficulties, despite his respectable numbers. He was benched afterwards for important games.

Iyer remained on the bench because KKR prefers a stable top order and specialized bowlers. Due to the team's emphasis on in-form players and the lack of usage of his bowling, his hefty price tag did not translate into regular playing time.

2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

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Purchased for INR 2 crore, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz played in 5 games and scored 74 runs at an average of 18.50 with a strike rate of around 140.  Although he had potential, he had trouble regularly turning beginnings into strong innings.  When Gurbaz failed, KKR had to turn back to Quinton De Kock.

KKR favored more reliable options and faced fierce competition for opening spots. Gurbaz had potential, and hence KKR paid him the price, but his limited impact and inability to affect important games kept him out of the starting lineup.

3. Moeen Ali

Moeen Ali participated in six IPL 2025 matches after being purchased by KKR for INR 2 crore.  At an economy rate of 9.14, he claimed 6 wickets and only managed 5 runs. He didn't contribute much with the bat.

In a squad that preferred more dependable all-rounders, his chances were diminished by his costly bowling periods and little batting effect.  Moeen was frequently pushed out of the starting lineup due to his erratic performances.

4. Rovman Powell

Rovman Powell, who cost INR 1.5 crore to join, played in two IPL 2025 games but only managed to score five runs. Even though he was known for being a strong hitter, he was unable to create an impression with the bat. KKR didn't use his bowling.  

More adaptable players who could make a regular contribution were chosen by KKR, and they had doubts about the former West Indian captain's abilities. Powell spent a lot of time on the bench and had few opportunities because of his poor play and inability to impact games.

5. Manish Pandey

After being purchased by KKR for INR 75 lakhs, Manish Pandey participated in three games and amassed 92 runs at a strike rate of 141.54 and an average of 23.00.  Despite his experience, he was unable to consistently deliver innings that won matches.  

In a competitive middle order, KKR favored supporting younger, more successful batsmen.  For a large portion of the season, Pandey was not in the starting lineup due to his patchy play and lack of significant contributions.

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