“Proud of everyone”: Ajinkya Rahane lauds entire KKR team despite disappointing end of IPL 2026
A Challenging Finale at Eden Gardens
The conclusion of the IPL 2026 group stage saw the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face off against the Delhi Capitals (DC) in a match that ultimately served as a dead rubber. With the top four spots on the points table already solidified, the result had no bearing on the postseason hierarchy. However, the contest at Eden Gardens provided a final look at a team that has navigated a rollercoaster season.
Chasing a competitive target of 203 set by Delhi Capitals, the Kolkata Knight Riders struggled to maintain momentum. Despite a promising start where KKR appeared in command, the innings collapsed, resulting in the team being bowled out for 163 runs in 18.4 overs.
The Turning Point
The complexion of the game shifted dramatically due to a single, decisive over bowled by Kuldeep Yadav. Before that pivotal moment, KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane was batting with poise and confidence, steering the chase and keeping his side in contention. Once Rahane departed, the remaining batting lineup failed to stabilize, leading to a swift decline in their pursuit.
Rahane Reflects on a Season of Resilience
Despite the final result, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane remained gracious and appreciative of his squad’s efforts during the post-match presentation. He acknowledged that the Eden Gardens track was particularly tricky during the early phase of the innings. When asked about his personal approach, Rahane noted, “The wicket was a little tricky at the start. I was batting really well and knew one batter had to go through, so I tried to take my chances. I was actually looking to target strike rotation as well.”
Addressing the broader scope of the season, Rahane was quick to praise the character of his teammates. “Talking about the kind of season we had, I’m really proud of everyone. The situation we were in after six games and then from there coming back, keeping the league alive and playing that kind of cricket needed character, a good attitude, and resilience. I’m really proud of every individual,” he remarked.
Overcoming Early Adversity
The 2026 campaign was far from a smooth ride for the Kolkata outfit. Rahane highlighted that the team faced significant hurdles during the first half of the group stage, suffering a string of defeats that threatened to derail their momentum. “A lot of positives. In the first half of the season, there were key moments where we were losing out, but after that, coming back from there is never easy. IPL is a long tournament with a lot of pressure and high-pressure situations,” he explained.
He emphasized that the internal culture of the dressing room remained a key pillar for the team’s resurgence. By maintaining a strong attitude and staying committed to the collective goal, the players were able to turn their form around and remain competitive until the very end.
Looking Toward the Future
As the tournament concludes, the players will disperse to fulfill various personal commitments. However, the planning for the next season is already on the horizon. Rahane confirmed that the team management and the players intend to stay in touch to evaluate their progress and discuss strategic plans moving forward.
“I think at the moment the guys have their commitments. We’ll just go off to our homes, probably take some time off, and then obviously we’ll probably connect over calls or Zoom and have discussions moving forward,” Rahane stated.
For the skipper himself, the break will be short-lived. Demonstrating his enduring passion for the sport, Rahane shared his immediate plans: “For me, just a couple of days off. I’m going to play my local league in Mumbai, which I’m really looking forward to. I’m happy as long as I’m playing cricket. So yes, a couple of days off and then back to cricket.”
The IPL 2026 season may have ended in a loss for Kolkata, but the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane and the grit displayed by his squad leaves the franchise with a foundation of character to build upon for future challenges.
