3 reasons why Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) might not be able to defend their title in IPL 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders were crowned the champions of IPL 2024. They clinched the prestigious title for the third time by trouncing Sunrisers Hyderabad by 8 wickets at Chepauk. KKR are the third-most successful team in IPL after Chennai Super Kings (5 titles) and Mumbai Indians (5 titles).

It is always an uphill task to win the title, let alone defending it. So far in the history of the IPL, only two teams namely, CSK (2010, 2011) and MI (2019, 2020) have defended the title. Now that KKR have won the accolade, it remains to be seen how they will go about their business.

KKR might have to face some challenges going forward in the next season. It is no secret that there will be immense pressure on the defending champions in IPL 2025. In this article, we will now stroll at the three reasons why KKR might not defend the title.

1. Gautam Gambhir might leave KKR

Gautam Gambhir has been one of the backbones of the Knight Riders. The veteran acted as a sharp cricketing brain behind the scenes, which played a significant role in helping the team become a formidable force. Under his captaincy, KKR won two IPL titles (2012 & 2014).

KKR won the third title, with Gambhir as the mentor. Recently, speculations were rife that Gambhir is all set to become the head coach of Team India. If that’s the case, then he will have to pack his bags at KKR. The three-time IPL champions might possibly struggle to produce the spark without Gambhir’s guidance.

Read more: 3 reasons why appointing Gautam Gambhir as Team India’s Head coach is right move