'A Cricketer Cannot Play Till 60': 'Dr Venkatesh Iyer' Reveals Pursuing PhD In Finance Alongside Cricket

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer has revealed that he is currently studying to have a PHD degree and advised his fellow compatriots to pursue education while playing cricket. The Madhya Pradesh-born cricketer vowed to return as Dr. Venkatesh Iyer the next time.

Iyer, who made his IPL debut in the second-half of the 2021 edition, has been a constant presence in their setup. The left-handed batter cracked four half-centuries in 10 matches that season on KKR's road to the final. Iyer went on to score 370 runs in IPL 2024 in 15 matches, averaging 46.25 as the franchise won the title.

Revealing the importance of education, the 29-year-old claimed:

"If I can do two things at the same time, I will. Studying also helps make better decisions on the field. I want cricketers to not only learn cricket knowledge but also general knowledge. If you can complete your graduation or post-graduation, you should definitely do it. I am currently pursuing my PHD (Finance). Next time you will interview me as Dr. Venkatesh Iyer," the seam-bowling all-rounder told The Indian Express.

"Due to studies, I get off from cricket for some time" - Venkatesh Iyer

Iyer underlined that age problems mean cricket cannot be played for a long time, but studies with remain with anyone forever.

"Studies remain with us as long as we're alive. We cannot play till age 60. You have to understand that cricket is for a short time only. After that, if you want to do something in your life, studies is necessary. Due to studies, I get off from cricket for some time."

Iyer also became one of the most expensive players in the IPL 2025 auction, fetching ₹23.75 crore from KKR.