'Prove me wrong': Ex-India batter throws challenge to Ajinkya Rahane ahead of IPL 2026
Aakash Chopra believes Ajinkya Rahane has a point to prove in IPL 2026, particularly regarding his post-powerplay scoring, despite a strong IPL 2025. Chopra also highlighted Rinku Singh's potential as a future captain and urged Varun Chakaravarthy to regain his wicket-taking form after a dip in the T20 World Cup.
Former India batter Aakash Chopra believes Ajinkya Rahane has a significant point to prove heading into IPL 2026, especially in addressing long-standing doubts about his game beyond the powerplay. Rahane led Kolkata Knight Riders from the front with the bat in IPL 2025, finishing as their top run-scorer. He amassed 390 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 147.
72. Despite those numbers, questions persisted around his ability to maintain scoring momentum once the field restrictions were lifted, particularly against spin, which many felt slowed KKR down at crucial stages. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra admitted he has been among those who questioned Rahane’s effectiveness after the powerplay.
However, he also sees the upcoming season as a chance for the KKR skipper to silence those criticisms. "Opportunities are plenty. Maybe Ajinkya Rahane, because I am one of those guys who have been slightly critical that he will have to be played in the powerplay as his role becomes extremely limited after that, but you can prove me wrong," Chopra said.
"It's an opportunity. Not that you need to prove me wrong. Why would you even bother?