Kolkata Knight Riders’ campaign that started on a dismal note where they lost 5 of their first 6 matches, got a flicker of hope after their stellar run of consecutive victories but the early defeats proved to be the difference as the missed out of the play-offs for the second year running.
Skipper Ajinkya Rahane was asked when the pressure was building on the team and on himself after the string of defeats, if he had considered stepping down as captain or taking himself off the playing XIs in select matches. The 37-year-old replied that he has never backed away from any challenges or problems and preferred to stay in the present so those thoughts of leaving captaincy did not cross his mind.
“For me, I’ve played cricket all my life with a good attitude. Character has always been very important for me. I’m never one to back down. When the team is down, when the team is struggling, it’s very important to show your character at that time. I am never one that steps down. When the team is struggling, it is important to show your character,” Rahane said in the post-match press conference.
Rahane also endured a disappointing campaign with the bat, scoring just 335 runs from 14 matches at an average of 25.76, including two half-centuries. Despite KKR’s struggles, Rahane admitted pressure is a natural part of cricket and stressed the importance of staying calm and avoiding panic during difficult phases.
“Yes, there’s pressure. It’s very natural but the pressure is on those who are privileged. Not everyone can handle the pressure. For me, it was important to stay strong and not panic. It’s very easy when you lose 5-6 matches, your focus shifts to the past and the future,” Rahane added.
The Kolkata Knight Riders endured a dreadful start to their campaign, failing to register a win in their first six matches. However, they gradually fought their way back into contention and remained alive in the playoff race until the final day of the league stage. In the end, KKR finished seventh on the table with 13 points and a net run rate of -0.147 after managing six wins from 14 matches.
