Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane has looked back on the IPL 2026 campaign with pride, highlighting the resolve his group showed after an uneven beginning. Rahane said the side kept its tournament hopes alive through a mix of belief, togetherness, and the right mindset in high-pressure situations, even though they ultimately fell short of the playoffs. While acknowledging the sting of missing a top-four finish, he pointed to the team’s stronger run in the second half as the most encouraging development—adding that every member of the squad gave their best effort.
Key takeaways
- Rahane credited KKR’s resilience for keeping the team in contention after a tough start to IPL 2026.
- KKR finished seventh in the points standings, missing out on playoff qualification.
- The captain said the second half of the tournament offered a major positive for the franchise.
- In their last league match, KKR were beaten by Delhi Capitals by 40 runs in Kolkata.
- KL Rahul made a half-century for DC, while Kuldeep Yadav took three wickets.
Rahane on KKR’s fightback and mindset
KKR’s skipper, who has won the IPL three times, reflected on the challenges his team faced and the manner in which they responded. He noted that the period after the first six matches was particularly important, because KKR managed to recover and keep themselves in the competition. Rahane stressed that staying in the league required more than skill—it demanded character, a positive approach, and resilience when matches became difficult. In his view, the pride he feels extends to the commitment shown by every individual in the squad.
Rahane also acknowledged that disappointment remains, given that the season did not end the way KKR wanted. He pointed out that the first half of the campaign included moments where results went against them, making a comeback all the more demanding. With the IPL being a long tournament packed with intense pressure, he said the key was maintaining strength and intent game after game, aiming to deliver for the team both on the field and within the dressing room. He reiterated that while qualification did not happen, the effort levels across the squad left him genuinely proud.
KKR’s final league outing: defeat to Delhi Capitals
KKR concluded their IPL 2026 league schedule with a heavy loss against Delhi Capitals at Eden Gardens on Sunday night. Delhi Capitals posted the upper hand in the contest, winning by 40 runs. KL Rahul struck a polished half-century to anchor DC’s innings, and Kuldeep Yadav played a decisive role with a three-wicket haul. Despite KKR’s efforts, the margin reflected a match where DC held firm and KKR were unable to turn the outcome in their favour.
