'Weak link Rahane, costly decisions' could spell disaster for KKR, warns Ex-IPL star
Former CSK batter S Badrinath has expressed significant concerns for KKR ahead of IPL 2026, labeling captain Ajinkya Rahane a "weak link" and questioning the team's leadership and costly squad decisions. Badrinath also criticized the record Rs 25.20 crore signing of Cameron Green, citing his recent poor form and questioning his value.
Former Chennai Super Kings batter S Badrinath has raised serious concerns about Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026, calling captain Ajinkya Rahane a 'weak link' in the setup. With less than 10 days remaining for KKR’s opening clash against Mumbai Indians, Badrinath questioned both the team’s leadership and their squad decisions, especially in light of multiple injury setbacks. “Ajinkya Rahane is definitely a weakness.
His captaincy itself is a weak link. All their big investments have gone wrong. They trusted Harshit Rana and invested in him, but he is ruled out.
Pathirana was a huge signing, and now he's doubtful. Mustafizur was another big investment, and he is ruled out. They've taken many costly decisions as there is uncertainty over most of their big investments,” Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.
He also took aim at KKR’s big-money signing of Cameron Green, who was acquired for a record Rs 25. 20 crore. Badrinath questioned the logic behind the move, pointing to the all-rounder’s recent struggles at the international level.