IPL 2026: KKR make big change; Rahane opts to bat in must-win clash vs Gujarat Titans
Under pressure after four losses, Kolkata Knight Riders have replaced Finn Allen with Tim Seifert, opting to bat first against Gujarat Titans. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane emphasised playing fearless cricket and resetting their approach. Gujarat Titans, unchanged, aim to continue their strong run, while KKR desperately seek their maiden victory.
NEW DELHI: Winless and under mounting pressure, Kolkata Knight Riders made a bold call at the toss, bringing in Tim Seifert for Finn Allen as they elected to bat first against Gujarat Titans in their Indian Premier League match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. With four defeats to start their IPL 2026 campaign, KKR are desperate to turn things around, and skipper Ajinkya Rahane made it clear that the team is looking to reset its approach. IPL 2026: GT vs KKR Live Score Seifert comes in as KKR shuffle XI The biggest talking point ahead of the game was KKR’s change at the top, with Seifert replacing Allen in the playing XI.
The move signals a shift in strategy as the franchise looks for a spark in their faltering batting unit. “Just one change. Tim Seifert comes in place of Finn Allen,” Rahane confirmed at the toss, underlining the importance of fresh energy in a struggling lineup.
KKR have tried multiple combinations in both batting first and chasing scenarios this season, but results have not followed. The inclusion of Seifert is seen as an attempt to stabilise the top order while adding experience and composure. ‘Play fearless cricket’: Rahane’s message Rahane explained the decision to bat first, emphasising freedom and intent as the core philosophy.
“We just want our batters to play freely, with freedom. The kind of tournament we’ve had so far, we’ve tried everything. I thought giving that freedom to the batters and then defending the total would be a good approach,” he said.