IPL 2026: Let people talk, I am not here to prove my talent, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane on batting critics after MI innings
Ajinkya Rahane brushed aside criticism over his batting after leading from the front for Kolkata Knight Riders in the first match of IPL 2026 against Mumbai Indians. The KKR skipper said he does not want to prove anything to anyone, insisting that he is satisfied with his current form.
Rahane’s comments came after his fluent innings at the Wankhede Stadium, where he scored 67 runs in 40 balls to propel KKR’s innings. Despite losing by six wickets, The veteran set the tone on a batting-friendly surface as KKR posted a strong score of 220 for 4.
MI vs KKR, IPL 2026: Update | Achievement:
“Let people talk about me – they have been talking about me for the last 20 years. Let them talk. I am really happy with the way I am batting at the moment. I am not here to show anyone how talented I am or what my game is. People are watching – let them watch, let them talk,” Rahane said in the post-match press conference.
“But I’m really happy with how much I’ve improved my game over the last two or three years in white-ball cricket, especially in the T20 format. It’s important to develop as a cricketer and a batsman, and that’s what I’m trying to do. So, let them do the talking.”
Rahane’s innings, which included three fours and five sixes, was well supported by Angkrish Raghuvanshi (51) and Finn Allen (37 off 17) as KKR kept the scoring rate strong throughout. However, their effort was not enough as MI chased down the target with ease.
The innings comes in the backdrop of scrutiny of Rahane’s leadership, after KKR finished eighth in IPL 2025 despite being the team’s top scorer with 390 runs.
Is Ajinkya Rahane’s injury serious?
The moment of concern for KKR came when Rahane walks off the field during Mumbai Indians’ chase After experiencing cramps.
However, the KKR captain downplayed the issue after receiving treatment from the team physio and confirmed that it was not serious. His early departure from the field was a precaution rather than a sign of any major injury concern.
Rahane’s fitness will be closely monitored ahead of KKR’s upcoming fixtures, but early indications suggest there is no long-term setback for the captain.
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