Ajinkya Rahane Urged to Prioritize Selfishness: KKR Captain Criticized for Significant DRS Error; Takes Responsibility for PBKS Defeat
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A miscalculation by two Kolkata Knight Riders batsmen triggered an unexpected collapse. On a favorable pitch in New Chandigarh on Tuesday, the Punjab Kings were dismissed for a mere 111 runs in 15.3 overs. Historically, no team in the IPL has successfully defended a total below 115, leaving Punjab on the brink of a second consecutive defeat that could have jeopardized their position in the standings. Meanwhile, Kolkata, despite facing two early setbacks, appeared poised to deliver a harsh reality check to Punjab at home until the dismissal of captain Ajinkya Rahane.
A partnership of 55 runs for the third wicket between Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi propelled Kolkata past the halfway mark in their chase with over 12 overs remaining. In response, Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer introduced Yuzvendra Chahal, who made an impact on just his fourth delivery of the eighth over.
The googly failed to turn significantly, and Rahane missed a sweeping shot, resulting in the ball hitting his back leg. Punjab appealed, and the umpire signaled out. Rahane, reluctant to request a review, shook his head and began to walk back to the dugout when Raghuvanshi called him over. They engaged in a brief discussion before Rahane ultimately left the field.
To KKR's disappointment, the replay indicated that the impact was outside off-stump, suggesting that had Rahane chosen to review the decision, he would have remained at the crease. This dismissal proved pivotal, as Kolkata subsequently lost wickets in quick succession, ultimately collapsing for just 95 runs and suffering a 16-run defeat.
Following the match, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif criticized Rahane for his error, urging him to prioritize his own interests over the team at times. He tweeted, “It’s time for Rahane, the team player, to be a bit selfish. He must recognize that he is KKR's key batsman and should utilize DRS whenever there is even a hint of doubt. #KKRvPBKS.”
Rahane accepts ‘blame’
Rahane acknowledged responsibility for the defeat and his subsequent dismissal before discussing his conversation with Raghuvanshi, noting their mutual uncertainty at that moment.
"There’s nothing more to clarify; we all witnessed the events unfold. I am quite disappointed with the performance. I accept the blame for playing an incorrect shot, even though it was likely missing. He expressed some doubt, mentioning it could be an umpire's call. I didn’t want to risk it at that moment, as I was uncertain too. That was the essence of our discussion," he stated.
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