All-rounder Ramandeep Singh recently stirred the cricket world with some strong words. He revealed that he could have earned much more money by leaving Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) before the IPL 2025 mega auction. But he chose loyalty over a bigger paycheck. The player didn't mince words, even taking a direct shot at his former KKR captain, Shreyas Iyer.

Ramandeep played a crucial role in KKR's IPL title win last season. However, Iyer decided to enter the auction pool, leading to KKR not retaining him. Iyer was then acquired by Punjab Kings for a staggering INR 26.75 crore, and was then appointed as their captain for IPL 2025.

Loyalty Above All Else

During a podcast on the 'Raj Shamani' YouTube channel, Ramandeep Singh opened up about the lucrative offers he received from other IPL franchises. He stated that he had the opportunity to earn a significant amount of money if he was willing to leave KKR. But his loyalty to the franchise that supported him early in his career, won out.

"You can't leave a franchise at such a time that has helped you so much," Ramandeep explained. "If you're leaving it for money, then it will be totally wrong. Other franchises were interested in me and told me that they are going to bid for me at this particular amount. But I didn't want to take this decision just for money because when I wasn't such a (renowned) player, this franchise (KKR) supported me and I wanted to support them back."

Ramandeep's commitment to KKR also proved beneficial, leading to an international debut. He made his IPL debut in 2022 for Mumbai Indians. The 2024 season, playing for KKR, saw him make his mark.

How Much Money Was on the Table?

The podcast further revealed that other franchises were prepared to go as high as INR 10 crore to acquire Ramandeep's services. However, he decided to stick with KKR, who retained him for INR 4 crore.

"The franchises had informed me that they will go till INR 10 Cr for me. But I just wanted to play for them (KKR). I feel that IPL is such a platform where opportunities are very important. So, you need to give loyalty to a franchise if it is backing you. Money doesn't matter that much," Ramandeep said.

A Dig at Shreyas Iyer

Ramandeep didn't shy away from making a point about his former captain, Shreyas Iyer. He subtly suggested that players who prioritize money over loyalty show a lack of character. He emphasized his own ambition to represent India and win a World Cup.

"Obviously, there are some players for whom money matters. But you've also played for INR 20 lakh for a team and if you're leaving a team for some money, it will show your character to them. I didn't have the vision to earn money. I just wanted to represent India and win a World Cup," he added.

Ramandeep Singh's IPL 2025 Scenario

Ramandeep's decision to stay with KKR resulted in him being retained for INR 4 crore. His performance last season was impressive, with 125 runs at an average of 31.25 and a staggering strike rate of 201.61. His ability to finish innings effectively led to his T20I debut in South Africa in November 2024. This decision underscores a rare display of loyalty in the world of modern cricket.