“Proud of everyone”: Ajinkya Rahane lauds entire KKR team despite disappointing IPL 2026 exit

A Challenging Conclusion at Eden Gardens

The conclusion of the IPL 2026 group stage saw the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face off against the Delhi Capitals in a match that, while mathematically a dead rubber, served as a final testament to the resilience of the squad. Despite a valiant effort, KKR fell short, chasing down a target of 203 runs only to be dismissed for 163 in 18.4 overs. The result, while not shifting the landscape of the top four, highlighted both the promise and the volatility of the team’s performance throughout the season.

The Turning Point of the Match

For a significant portion of the chase, the Kolkata Knight Riders looked firmly in control. Ajinkya Rahane, leading the side, was batting with immense confidence and poise. His presence at the crease provided a sense of stability that suggested a victory was well within reach. However, the complexion of the game shifted dramatically due to a single, clinical over from Kuldeep Yadav. This pivotal moment derailed the KKR momentum, and following Rahane’s departure, the middle and lower order struggled to maintain the necessary scoring rate, eventually leading to a collapse.

Rahane Remains Positive Amidst Defeat

In the post-match presentation ceremony, Ajinkya Rahane offered a candid assessment of the game. He acknowledged that the pitch at Eden Gardens presented challenges, particularly during the initial phase of the innings. “The wicket was a little tricky at the start,” Rahane noted. “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.”

Despite the final loss and the disappointment of missing out on the playoff spots, the KKR captain emphasized the character displayed by his squad. He specifically pointed to the team’s incredible turnaround after a rocky first half of the tournament. “Talking about the kind of season we had, I am really proud of everyone,” he added.

Character and Resilience: The Season in Review

Rahane reflected on the difficult position the team found themselves in after the opening six matches of the tournament. The ability to regroup, keep their league hopes alive, and play a brand of cricket defined by grit and determination was, in his view, the true highlight of their season. “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 am really proud of every individual,” the skipper stated.

The IPL, known for its high-pressure environment, tested the squad repeatedly. Rahane highlighted that while there were key moments in the first half of the season where the team faltered, the subsequent recovery demonstrated the maturity within the dressing room. He noted that the environment remained positive, with players consistently trying their best for the collective good of the team.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As the curtains close on the 2026 season, the focus now shifts toward planning and preparation for future campaigns. Rahane confirmed that the players would take some well-deserved time off to attend to personal commitments before the team reconvenes via digital channels to discuss strategy and improvements for next year.

For Rahane personally, the break will be brief. The veteran batter plans to jump straight back into action with his local league in Mumbai. “For me, just a couple of days off. I am going to play my local league in Mumbai, which I am really looking forward to. I am happy as long as I am playing cricket. So yes, a couple of days off and then back to cricket,” he concluded, underscoring his enduring passion for the sport regardless of the stage.

While the 2026 IPL journey did not culminate in a trophy, the sentiment expressed by Ajinkya Rahane suggests a team that is building a foundation of resilience, ready to tackle the challenges of the next cycle with a renewed perspective.