The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a platform where players can redefine their careers, and the 2025 season looks no different, especially with the movement of key players across different franchises. Three former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) players, Shreyas Iyer, Mitchell Starc, and Phil Salt, have found new homes with Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), respectively. Here’s how each could set IPL 2025 on fire:
Shreyas Iyer at Punjab Kings
Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to an Indian Premier League title in 2024, has joined Punjab Kings, bringing with him a wealth of leadership experience and batting prowess. His tenure at Kolkata Knight Riders was marked by strategic captaincy and a robust middle-order presence. Iyer’s ability to anchor innings, especially in high-pressure situations, could be the linchpin for PBKS, a team known for its explosive batting but sometimes lacking consistency in the middle overs. His knack for reading the game could translate into smarter field placements and bowling changes, potentially elevating PBKS from contenders to champions. Iyer’s record of scoring runs at a brisk pace when needed, combined with his captaincy, makes him a crucial asset for Punjab, aiming to end their long wait for an Indian Premier League trophy.
Mitchell Starc with Delhi Capitals
Mitchell Starc, known for his lethal pace and swing, was a headline purchase for KKR in the previous auction, setting a record for being the most expensive player. However, his journey with Delhi Capitals could be where he truly unleashes his potential in Indian Premier League 2025. Starc’s performance in the latter part of the 2024 Indian Premier League, especially in crucial matches, hinted at what he’s capable of when in form. For DC, who have often struggled with their pace attack in the powerplay and death overs, Starc could be the game-changer. His ability to take early wickets and then return in the death overs to deliver pinpoint yorkers will add a new dimension to DC’s bowling strategy. Under the leadership of Ricky Ponting and with the support of a balanced squad, Starc might just find the consistency that eluded him in his initial IPL stints, potentially leading DC to a deep playoff run.
Phil Salt at Royal Challengers Bangalore
Phil Salt, who was a revelation for KKR with his aggressive opening batting, has now signed with RCB, a team often in search of a stable top order. Salt’s explosive start to the innings can set the tone for RCB, providing the platform needed for middle-order mavericks like Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik to play their natural game. His strike rate of 182.00 in IPL 2024 speaks volumes about his ability to change the game’s momentum early on. For RCB, which has historically relied heavily on Virat Kohli for stability, Salt could ease the pressure on Kohli by taking the attack to the bowlers from the outset. His fearless approach against both pace and spin could also play in RCB’s favor on the Bengaluru pitches, which can sometimes assist spinners. If Salt can replicate or even build on his form from last season, RCB fans might finally see their team clinch the elusive title.
The IPL has always been about evolution, both for teams and players, and the 2025 season could witness this through the performances of Shreyas Iyer, Mitchell Starc, and Phil Salt. Each brings a unique set of skills and past successes that could help their new teams overcome previous shortcomings. Iyer’s leadership and batting could make Punjab Kings formidable, Starc’s bowling might just give Delhi Capitals the edge they need, and Salt’s aggressive opening could finally stabilize RCB’s batting lineup. As these players transition into new roles, their impact will not only be about personal milestones but also about how they can elevate their teams in the quest for IPL glory. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, as these moves could very well dictate the narrative of IPL 2025.
