IPL 2026: Ajinkya Rahane hits back at critics, no issues with strike rate

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane hit back at his critics, saying they were ‘jealous’ and there were no issues with his strike rate in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Responding to a query about some experts’ views about his role in KKR, Rahane, who has a strike rate of 150 this season (his second best after 172.48 in 2023) so far, said, “I’ve one of the best strike rates since 2011. The people who’re talking about me, probably (they’re) not watching the matches, or they’ve certain other targets, they don’t like me playing. The amount of success I got, I guess they’re jealous of me. I’m happy they’re talking about me, negative or positive.”

Following KKR’s 65-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) while chasing 227 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday (April 2, 2026) night, Rahane reiterated that injuries to key pacers affected his side which lost its first two matches. “It’s still early days, what’s important for us is to have that belief in each and every individual.”

Rahane praised his bowlers for fighting back after conceding plenty of runs in the PowerPlay. “It looked like they would get 250-260. I thought the bowlers came back really well, bowled smartly. I don’t think there was any issue with the pitch.

“First six overs were crucial for us. We lost the extra wicket of Cameron Green. When you’re chasing the target, it’s bound to happen. What we needed today was partnerships. That didn’t happen. SRH executed their plans really well,” said Rahane.