KKR vs RCB: Ajinkya Rahane Shines in Defeat, Vows Team Will Bounce Back
In the much-anticipated KKR vs RCB clash that kicked off IPL 2025, Ajinkya Rahane made an immediate impact for Kolkata Knight Riders, scoring a fluent 56 off 31 balls. However, despite his strong performance, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerged victorious, winning the match by 8 wickets with 22 balls to spare.
Rahane, who also captained the side, expressed disappointment over the loss but remained optimistic.
“I hope you all enjoyed my innings more than I did. For me, it’s about contributing to the team. Scoring 56 runs would’ve felt better if we had won,” Rahane said in the post-match press conference.
Key Highlights From KKR vs RCB:
KKR’s Batting Collapse Cost Them the Match
KKR, after a solid start at 107 for 1, collapsed to 174 for 9 by the end of their 20 overs. Rahane and Sunil Narine, who scored 44, laid a strong foundation, but the middle-order failed to capitalize. The final four overs yielded only 23 runs.
The lone support came from Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who added 30 runs at No. 5. But the team’s inability to build on their momentum proved costly, allowing RCB to comfortably chase down the target.
RCB’s Bowlers Shifted the Momentum
Rahane credited RCB’s bowling, particularly during the 13th to 16th overs, for turning the game around. KKR lost key wickets in that phase, going from 125 for 3 to 150 for 6, which halted their progress.
“RCB bowled really well in that middle phase. That was the momentum-changer,” Rahane noted.
Despite the loss, Rahane said he is not focused on negatives and remains confident in the capabilities of his players.
Selection Calls: De Kock Over Gurbaz
When asked about the decision to pick Quinton de Kock over Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahane explained it was a strategic move.
“Gurbaz is a fantastic player, but you can’t fit everyone into the XI. We felt the combination of Quinton and Narine as openers could be dangerous.”
He also emphasized that opening combinations are more about chemistry than following a strict left-right policy.
Backing KKR’s Young Pacers
On the bowling front, KKR fielded a relatively inexperienced pace attack with Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, and Spencer Johnson. The trio conceded a combined 105 runs in just 8.2 overs, picking up only one wicket.
Despite this, Rahane stood by their selection:
“I don’t believe in making too many changes. These bowlers have been doing well. Harshit is confident, Spencer brings a unique left-arm angle, and Vaibhav has performed consistently.”
“It was just one of those days. I trust these players and believe they’ll bounce back.”
What’s Next for KKR?
KKR now heads to Guwahati to face the Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday. With a tough start to the season, Rahane stressed the need to stay positive and support the squad.
“It’s the first game of the season. We’ve identified areas for improvement, and I’m confident we’ll come back stronger.”
In the RCB vs KKR season opener, Ajinkya Rahane’s standout innings was a silver lining for Kolkata Knight Riders. Though the match ended in defeat, his leadership and composed response suggest that KKR is focused on long-term consistency and growth in IPL 2025.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald
