Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been cautioned about a significant challenge in IPL 2025 following their appointment of veteran Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane as captain for the upcoming season. This decision was revealed last week by KKR CEO Venky Mysore, who emphasized that Rahane's extensive experience and "maturity" in managing the pressures of a high-stakes tournament like the IPL made him the obvious choice for leadership.

In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, just days before the commencement of the league's 18th edition, former KKR player Aakash Chopra expressed concerns regarding the potential 'captain-batter' conflict that Rahane may encounter throughout the season, which could impact KKR's performance. While acknowledging the rationale behind Rahane's selection as captain, Chopra argued that for Rahane to make a meaningful contribution, he must bat in the top order.

Chopra noted, "For Shreyas Iyer, they have a domestic middle-order batsman who recently played a pivotal role in his team's victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and is currently in good form. However, KKR's primary challenge this season will be the 'captain-batter' conflict that Rahane will experience. For Rahane as a batsman, the optimal strategy would be to open at Eden Gardens or bat at No. 3. Any position lower than that diminishes his ability to make a significant impact, as he thrives during the powerplay."

When asked whether Rahane might become ineffective if he fails to secure a strong start, the former Indian opener elaborated on the challenges KKR could face. He pointed out that with Sunil Narine having performed well as an opener last season, he is likely to maintain that role alongside wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock. Although Venkatesh Iyer, the vice-captain, would ideally bat at No. 3, Chopra insisted that Rahane must occupy that position; otherwise, he may struggle to contribute effectively to the team's scoring.

"That is the conflict. Sunil Narine will open and he will open with Quinton de Kock if he is in the team. Now will they tell Narine not to open after the runs he scored last season? Of course, he will open. So, No. 3, which is ideally the position for Venkatesh Iyer, is the best you can do for Rahane. Or else he will have to forgo his own ambitions as a batter," he added.

Rahane as captain, a good call?

Indian cricket legend Harbhajan Singh concurred with Chopra, asserting that the No. 3 batting position would be ideal for Rahane. However, he suggested that if KKR struggles to accommodate the former Indian captain in the top order, it would have been more advantageous for the franchise to appoint either Narine or Iyer as the captain for IPL 2025.

"Rahane's optimal position is at No. 3, as the opening slots are already secured. If KKR selected Rahane solely for his leadership role, then they could have considered other candidates like Narine, Iyer, or Russell," he remarked.

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