Ajinkya Rahane sends strong message ahead of IPL 2026 with blazing 20-ball fifty
Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane signaled his intent for IPL 2026 with a rapid 58 off 25 balls in a practice game. Despite a tough 2025, Rahane, the team's leading scorer, expressed optimism and a positive outlook towards the upcoming season. He emphasized the importance of a strong start and consistent performance for the revamped KKR squad.
Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane has sent out an early statement ahead of IPL 2026, showcasing his intent with a blistering knock in a practice game. The veteran batter smashed 58 off just 25 balls, bringing up his half-century in only 20 deliveries before voluntarily walking off to allow other players time in the middle. — KKRWeRule (@KKRWeRule) Despite a disappointing 2025 campaign, where KKR finished eighth with just five wins in 14 matches, the franchise has continued to back Rahane as skipper.
The 37-year-old had been their leading run-scorer last season with 390 runs in 13 matches at an average of 35. 45 and a strike rate of 147. 73, even as the team struggled to defend their title.
Heading into the new season, Rahane made it clear that he is embracing the responsibility with a calm and optimistic outlook. “Every year, there are different challenges as a player and also as a captain. What I learned throughout my journey is be positive each and every time, whatever challenges are there," he said during the team’s first media interaction.
“I’ve been leading the team since last year and really grateful to the franchise that they gave me this responsibility to lead the team. Taking everything in my stride, taking everything in a positive way. There are always opportunities, there are challenges, you always see opportunities.