Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane hit back strongly at criticism surrounding his batting approach in T20 cricket, alleging that an “agenda” and “jealousy” are behind the constant scrutiny.
Rahane, who has been out of the Indian national side for some time, has often faced questions about his suitability in the shortest format. His role and position within KKR have also been debated in recent seasons. Picked up in the accelerated round of the IPL mega auction, he was entrusted with the captaincy due to limited leadership options, with the franchise banking on his experience and calm presence.
In IPL 2025, Rahane scored 390 runs in 13 matches at a strike rate of 147.73, though KKR failed to qualify for the playoffs during their title defence.
Responding to critics, Rahane defended his T20 credentials and pointed to his improved strike rate since 2023.
“I think I have one of the best strike rates since 2023. People talking about me are either not watching the game or have a certain agenda. They don’t like me playing,” he said in a post-match press conference.
The veteran batter had reinvented his T20 approach during his stint with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023, where he played a crucial role in their title-winning campaign. He scored 326 runs that season at a remarkable strike rate of 172.49. However, his form dipped in 2024, managing 242 runs at a strike rate of 123.47, before bouncing back slightly the following season.
‘Jealousy behind criticism’
Rahane went a step further, suggesting that jealousy may be driving much of the criticism directed at him.
“The success I’ve had, I guess they are jealous. I’m not too worried. Sometimes as a batter, you don’t find rhythm, but my intent is always there. People either don’t understand the game or want me to play differently,” he said.
He started the current season on a positive note with a quickfire 67 against Mumbai Indians, but struggled in the next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, scoring just 8 off 10 balls as KKR lost both their opening matches.
Despite the mixed performances, Rahane remains unfazed by the noise, stating that he welcomes attention—whether positive or negative.
“They didn’t expect Ajinkya Rahane to prove himself like this. I’m happy people are talking about me, good or bad. Let them talk,” he signed off.
