IPL 2025 Auction: Nitish Rana Wife Sparks Loyalty Debate After Kolkata Knight Riders Snub at IPL 2025 Auction

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The IPL 2025 mega auction brought significant changes, with one of the most notable shifts being Nitish Rana's move to Rajasthan Royals (RR). The left-handed batter, a loyal servant of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since 2018, was acquired by RR for INR 4.20 crore during the event in Jeddah on November 25.

Despite his consistent performances for KKR, including scoring 2,199 runs at a strike rate of 136.32 in 88 matches, the franchise opted not to retain him. Even more surprising was KKR's decision not to exercise their Right to Match (RTM) card, leaving fans and analysts questioning the defending champions' strategy.

Adding to the drama, Rana's wife, Saachi Marwah, took to social media to express her disappointment with a cryptic message. Posting on both Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, "Loyalty is very expensive; not everyone can afford it."

The post quickly went viral, sparking debates about KKR's treatment of one of their most loyal players. Rana himself has remained composed amid the controversy. Following his acquisition by RR, he shared a selfie wearing a pink T-shirt on Instagram.

The caption on the picture read "Royal-ty is Pink!" signaling his excitement about this new chapter. However, both Rana and his wife have unfollowed KKR on Instagram, suggesting underlying tensions.

The IPL 2025 auction saw KKR prioritizing other players, most notably repurchasing Venkatesh Iyer for a staggering INR 23.75 crore, making him the third-most expensive player in the auction. This move has only fueled speculation about the franchise's approach to team-building.

Especially since Rana had led the team in several matches during his tenure. Meanwhile, Rana faces a significant pay cut with RR, earning INR 4.20 crore compared to his previous INR 8 crore contract with KKR.

Despite the reduced salary, the Uttar Pradesh-born batter remains optimistic about his future with RR, a team that also made headlines for acquiring Jofra Archer for INR 12.50 crore. As IPL 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Nitish Rana and his performance with the Rajasthan Royals. His departure from KKR marks the end of a seven-year association.