KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane hits back at critics: “They are jealous of me”

Ajinkya Rahane has hit back at his critics with a strong and candid response, defending both his approach and his recent performances in the IPL.

Speaking after Kolkata Knight Riders’ six wicket loss to Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, the KKR batter made it clear that he is unfazed by the noise around him.

“I have one of the best strike rates so far from 2023. People who are talking about me are probably not watching the game or they have a certain agenda against me. They don’t like me playing,” Rahane said.

The experienced batter went a step further, suggesting that criticism may stem from his success.

“The amount of success which I have got, I guess they are jealous of me. I am not too worried.”

Rahane also pointed out that form can fluctuate, but expectations around his style of play often do not reflect reality.

“Sometimes as a batter, you don’t get that rhythm, you don’t get that flow. People who are talking either don’t understand the game or think I should play a different kind of innings. They didn’t expect that Ajinkya Rahane will prove his game this much.”

Despite the criticism, Rahane insisted he takes it all in stride.

“I am happy they are talking about me, negative or positive, either way. Let them talk.”

His comments come at a time when his strike rate has seen a significant improvement compared to the 2020 to 2022 phase, when it hovered around 100 to 105. Since 2023, Rahane has reinvented his T20 approach and consistently scored at a much higher tempo.

In 2023, he enjoyed a standout season with Chennai Super Kings, striking at an impressive 172.49, including a blistering 71 not out off 29 balls against KKR. While 2024 saw a dip to 123.47, he bounced back in 2025 with a strike rate of 147.73, finishing as KKR’s top scorer with 390 runs.

The ongoing 2026 season has only strengthened his case. Rahane is currently striking at 167.50 and began the campaign with a solid 67 off 40 balls against Mumbai Indians.