look news india
The journey of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) was very disappointing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR, the defending champion, was limited to only 13 points this season. On Sunday, when Rajasthan Royals defeated Mumbai Indians, KKR’s remaining hopes of reaching the playoffs were also completely destroyed. The team also had to face a crushing defeat against Delhi Capitals in its last league match.
Throughout this season, 37-year-old experienced captain Ajinkya Rahane has been the target of critics. Initially the Kolkata team was on the backfoot by losing 5 out of its first 6 matches. Rahane’s own bat was also silent and the team was also losing continuously. In such a situation, speculations were being made whether Rahane had decided to leave the captaincy in the middle of the season? Rahane himself revealed this secret in the press conference after the defeat against Delhi.
“I am not one to shy away from challenges” Ajinkya Rahane
On the question of leaving the captaincy in moments of pressure, Ajinkya Rahane gave a very strong and clear answer. He made it clear that he never thought of running away from responsibility in difficult times.
Ajinkya Rahane said: “As for myself, I have always played cricket with a positive mindset. Character is very important for me. I am not one to back down. When the team struggles, that is where you show your true character. Pressure will come, it is very natural. Pressure is always on those who get the privilege. Not everyone can handle the pressure. The most important thing for me was to be mentally strong and Don’t panic. That’s why the thought of leaving the captaincy never came to my mind.”
Rahane’s perspective on criticism and continuous defeats
Rahane admitted that the team could not perform up to its potential in the first half of the tournament, due to which he was bound to be criticized.
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On fans reaction: Rahane said, “We as cricketers are where we are today because of the fans. When we do good, they praise and when we do bad, they also criticize. It is a part of the game and every cricketer understands this.”
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It is important to live in the moment: It is easy to lose your mind after losing 5-6 consecutive matches. Rahane said, “It is important for you to stay in the present. Things can change anytime. I told all the players of the team that only one great game is needed to turn the tables. We just had to believe in ourselves.”
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Accepting shortcomings: “We admitted that we did not play up to our potential and were criticized as well. When you don’t accept your mistakes and things, the problems become more serious,” the captain said candidly.
KKR’s IPL 2026 journey (quick analysis)
KKR needs new thinking for the next season
Even though Rahane has talked about having mental strength to bear the pressure of captaincy, but according to cricket critics and media reports, Kolkata Knight Riders need an aggressive and new thinking young captain for the next season (IPL 2027). To fill the leadership vacuum that has arisen in the team after the departure of mentor Gautam Gambhir, KKR will have to find a strong replacement in the upcoming mega auction or trade window.
