“Need to Stay Calm…”: Ajinkya Rahane Puzzled as KKR Batters Squander Simple Chase Against PBKS

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Ajinkya Rahane acknowledged that his batters were careless during the run chase and must take full accountability for the outcome.

KKR’s Batting Collapse Stuns Skipper Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane was left shell-shocked after his team’s dramatic collapse against Punjab Kings on Tuesday night. Chasing a modest target of 112, KKR failed to capitalize and were bowled out for just 95 in 15.1 overs—marking one of the most shocking defeats in IPL history, as Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings successfully defended the lowest total ever in the tournament.

At one point, KKR were cruising at 62/2 in 7.3 overs, but things unraveled quickly thanks to a brilliant spell from Yuzvendra Chahal. The veteran spinner turned the game on its head with a four-wicket haul, dismantling the KKR lineup in quick succession.

In the post-match presentation, Rahane didn’t shy away from accepting the blame. He pointed to his batters’ lack of discipline and poor shot selection, despite the bowlers having set up the game perfectly.

“On this wicket, batting with a straight bat was the key. The sweep shot was difficult. We had the intent but didn’t play proper cricketing shots. We were reckless and should take full responsibility. Right now, there are too many thoughts in my head. This should’ve been an easy chase,” Rahane admitted candidly.

“When I go upstairs, need to keep myself calm…”: Ajinkya Rahane

Young Angkrish Raghuvanshi stood out with a composed 37 off 28 balls, including five boundaries and a six, but received little support from a faltering Kolkata Knight Riders middle-order. Big names like Venkatesh Iyer (7), Rinku Singh (2), and Ramandeep Singh (0) once again failed to deliver, raising concerns after the franchise showed significant faith in them during the retention and auction phases.

Andre Russell tried to mount a late resistance with a brisk 17, but with wickets tumbling at the other end, even the powerful all-rounder couldn’t withstand the pressure and was the last man to fall.

Speaking after the loss, skipper Ajinkya Rahane offered a transparent look into the mood in the camp and his mindset moving forward. “When I go upstairs, need to keep myself calm and then think about what to say to the boys. Still have to be positive. Half of the tournament is still remaining. Have to address this and move forward,” Rahane said, emphasizing the need for composure and a reset as the team regroups.

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