IPL 2025: Why KKR Appointing Ajinkya Rahane as Captain is a Mistake
- KKR lost a long-term leader in Shreyas Iyer and replaced him with Rahane, a short-term option.
- Rahane’s recent IPL form is inconsistent, raising doubts about his place in the team.
- His captaincy record is poor, with a low win percentage of 36%.
- KKR could have chosen a more aggressive and strategic leader to align with their playing style.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have announced Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain for IPL 2025. However, this decision has sparked debate among fans and experts. With KKR aiming to defend their IPL title, appointing Rahane might not be the best strategic move. Here’s why:
1. KKR Moving Backwards Instead of Forward
KKR had a dynamic leader in Shreyas Iyer, who led them to an IPL title in 2024. Instead of building on that momentum, KKR chose to part ways with him and opted for Rahane. While Rahane brings experience, he is not a long-term option. The franchise would have benefited more by investing in a younger leader with a future vision, rather than choosing a short-term solution.
2. Questionable Performance in IPL 2024
Rahane’s performance in the 2024 IPL season was underwhelming. Here’s a look at his stats:
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Matches | 13 |
| Runs | 242 |
| Average | 20.17 |
| Strike-rate | 123.47 |
| 50s/100s | 0/0 |
His numbers show a dip in form compared to 2023, where he had a strike rate of 172 and played aggressively. KKR relies on power-hitters, and Rahane’s batting approach doesn’t align with the team’s strategy. If he fails to score runs in the first few matches, KKR could face a major selection dilemma.
3. Poor IPL Captaincy Record
Rahane has captained in the IPL before, but his track record is far from impressive:
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Matches | 25 |
| Wins | 9 |
| Losses | 16 |
| Win percentage | 36.00 |
With a win percentage of just 36%, Rahane has struggled as a leader in previous IPL stints with Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Rising Pune Supergiants (RPSG). His inability to adapt and deliver results makes him a questionable choice for KKR’s captaincy.
While Rahane is a respected player, his appointment as KKR’s captain seems like a miscalculated move. His declining form, weak leadership record, and misalignment with KKR’s aggressive approach raise concerns about the team’s future performance. If he fails to deliver early, KKR might find themselves in a difficult position.