While India won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by a margin of 2-1, they were left with a bitter taste, as Shreyas Iyer was ruled out due to a sustained back injury. Reports have emerged that he is set to be out for a prolonged period of time, and is already been ruled out from the upcoming ODI series vs Australia. He will likely also miss the first few games of the IPL 2023, wherein the Kolkata Knight Riders will miss the services of their skipper and premier batsman for the first half.
Iyer was the highest run-scorer for KKR in IPL 2022, and even though the side could not qualify for the playoffs, his captaincy skills were much appreciated. Hence Iyer will be a big miss for the two-time champions. However, things must go on, and KKR need to find a new skipper. Here are three players who can lead KKR in Iyer’s absence –
Sunil Narine
Sunil Narine has been a pillar for Kolkata Knight Riders ever since his debut season in IPL 2012. He has picked up 122 wickets in his IPL career, and played a pivotal part in helping them win two trophies. So, he might be a natural choice to lead the side, given his status as a bonafide KKR legend.
Nitish Rana
Nitish Rana might be an odd choice to become captain of such a big IPL side. However, the extra responsibility might just enhance Rana’s game given his spot in KKR’s batting order is sealed. He has captained Delhi at the first-class level, and will be a like-for-like replacement as an Indian batting captain.
Andre Russell
Another West Indian that makes the list is the dashing all-rounder Andre Russell. Even though he has been riddled with injuries, he has been an integral part of KKR and one of the legends of the IPL side. His experience might be just the right fit for captain.
