Rahane Addresses Criticism and Strike Rate Concerns
After experiencing their second loss in the IPL 2026 season against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Eden Gardens, Ajinkya Rahane responded to critics who have been questioning his batting style and the growing ‘outside noise’ surrounding his strike rate. The veteran cricketer emphasized that he believes he has one of the best strike rates from 2023 and suggested that those criticizing him might not be watching the game closely.
Rahane stated, “I think I have one of the best strike-rates so far from 2023, and people who are talking about me are probably not watching the game, and they have a certain agenda against me. They don’t like me playing; they don’t like to watch me play. The amount of success I got, I guess, they are jealous. I am not too worried. You guys know what I am doing. Just one bad inning, not a bad innings, but my intent was there. Sometimes, as a batter, you don’t get that rhythm, you don’t get that flow.”
Strong Start in the Season
The 37-year-old began the season with a notable performance, scoring 67 runs off 40 balls against Mumbai Indians on Sunday while opening alongside Finn Allen. His innings was divided into two phases, as Rahane scored 36 runs off 18 balls during the powerplay, but later required 22 balls to score his final 31 runs. Critics noted that this shift in tempo affected Kolkata Knight Riders’ momentum.
Rahane added, “People who are talking, either they don’t understand the game, and I think they want me to, you know, play a different kind of innings. They didn’t expect that Ajinkya Rahane will basically improve his game this much. I am happy they are talking about me, negative or positive. Let them talk. It’s been amazing with Finn Allen. We had a very good partnership in Mumbai. For the first 6 overs, we always look to play fearless cricket with freedom. At times, you will struggle, but that’s ok. It’s important to accept, but I know what I am doing, what I did in the past, and I back myself rather than thinking about whoever is talking about me.”
Struggles Against Sunrisers Hyderabad
Rahane’s batting performance took a hit in his second match of the season on Thursday against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He struggled during the initial powerplay period, scoring only 8 runs from 10 balls. This lack of form contributed to Kolkata Knight Riders’ defeat as they failed to reach their challenging target of 226 runs at Eden Gardens.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Rahane remains confident in his abilities. He spoke about his future plans after his team’s loss to Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026 season opener. The right-handed batsman expressed that people have been discussing him for nearly two decades and that he no longer feels the need to prove his talent to anyone.
- Rahane emphasized that his focus is on delivering results and maintaining his approach to the game.
- He acknowledged the importance of adapting to different situations and challenges that come with playing in high-pressure matches.
- Rahane also highlighted the significance of teamwork and how partnerships can influence the outcome of a game.
