Kolkata Knight Riders may be searching for answers as their season struggles continue, and captain Ajinkya Rahane has found himself at the centre of fresh debate. With his responsibilities stretching from batting at the top of the order to leading the side, Rahane’s intent and decision-making have both come under scrutiny. However, former KKR coach Chandrakant Pandit—who was part of the management setup last year when Rahane first took over the captaincy—has pushed back against the criticism, arguing that the veteran’s approach in T20 cricket is largely aligned with the job assigned to him.
Rahane under scrutiny: intent and captaincy questioned
Pandit’s comments came after Rahane’s place as an opening batter and the wider pressure that comes with captaining a franchise in a tough run. While Rahane’s role as the team’s top-order anchor has been questioned, Pandit believes the concerns overlook how the shortest format demands different styles of batting at different stages of an innings. The former coach also addressed the “pressure” tag attached to the KKR skipper, especially given the team’s overall campaign.
Why Pandit believes Rahane’s T20 batting is suited to the role
Asked specifically about Rahane’s criticism as a T20 batter, Pandit said the batter has delivered when he has been given opportunities. He pointed to Rahane’s performances over recent seasons and insisted that the veteran’s record is not limited to the IPL, but extends to other T20 competitions as well.
- Pandit said Rahane has shown good returns over the last couple of seasons whenever he has had chances to bat.
- He added that Rahane’s form has also been solid in domestic cricket, including T20 matches.
- Pandit argued that batting at number one carries distinct responsibilities compared to other positions in the top order.
- He explained that after the powerplay, once the initial six overs are completed, Rahane’s job is often to steady the innings and move it forward in a controlled manner.
- Pandit suggested this could be why Rahane is not always looking to attack the ball aggressively, describing him as a “calculating” player who plays with thought.
Pressure on the captain: Pandit’s view on responsibility and consistency
On the question of pressure, Pandit acknowledged that there is some added weight on Rahane, particularly because KKR’s campaign has not gone well. Still, he maintained that the skipper is doing what is expected of him as a senior figure in the squad.
- Pandit said it can feel like Rahane is carrying extra pressure when the team isn’t performing.
- He pointed out that as a senior player, the responsibility naturally falls on him, and Rahane may be putting in additional effort with a mindset that the team needs results.
- At the same time, Pandit stressed that players manage such situations differently, and swings in performance are normal.
- He noted that consistency can vary from person to person, with some players thriving in one season and struggling in the next.
Comparisons to Gaikwad and Gill: a “measured” batting template
Pandit also drew parallels between Rahane’s playing style and those of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill, saying they all fall into a similar category of batters. He highlighted an adaptable, composed approach that works across formats and suggested Rahane’s current batting reflects the correct plan for a top-order role, particularly after the powerplay.
- Pandit said players such as Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad show an adaptable, calm style that translates across formats.
- He placed Rahane in the same group, describing him as someone who relies on a thoughtful and measured method.
- Pandit said Rahane understands his role and responsibilities as a top-order batter after the powerplay.
- He added that Rahane’s batting indicates he is doing what is expected from a number-one position once the early overs end.
Finally, Pandit underlined that every KKR batter has a different job description, especially the power hitters tasked with accelerating the run rate. He specifically mentioned Rovman Powell as one of the players the franchise relies on to push the tempo forward. In his view, the key is balance across the team, and Rahane’s approach fits into that structure.
- Pandit noted that other KKR players have different roles, with power hitters expected to strike more aggressively.
- He cited Rovman Powell as a key option for KKR to accelerate scoring and move the game forward.
- He concluded that balance within the side matters most, and Rahane’s style fits that overall plan.
