IPL 2025: No grievances...we fought valiantly, says Rahane after KKR's narrow defeat to LSG
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Synopsis
Ajinkya Rahane expressed satisfaction with his team's performance despite KKR's narrow four-run loss to LSG in IPL 2025. The match showcased impressive batting and a commendable effort from KKR, with Rahane scoring 61 runs. The team's aggressive mindset was evident, though their bowling fell short against Lucknow's strong innings.
Key Takeaways
- KKR fought hard, losing by only four runs.
- Rahane scored a commendable 61 runs.
- The team showed great intent and aggression throughout.
- Powerplay yielded 90 runs, a season best.
- Bowling performance lacked control, impacting the match.
Kolkata, April 8 (NationPress) Ajinkya Rahane expressed he had “no grievances” from his squad after the Kolkata Knight Riders narrowly missed out on a potential record chase against the Lucknow Super Giants, losing by just four runs in Match 22 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Eden Gardens on Tuesday.
Kolkata aimed for a daunting target of 239 — a nearly impossible feat on many occasions — but fought until the last ball. Throughout the match, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) maintained their competitive edge, with Rahane leading the charge with a superb 61, ensuring the team's spirit remained high.
"It was a very close match. As I mentioned at the toss, the pitch was excellent. No complaints; we fought valiantly but fell just four runs short," Rahane stated post-match. "When chasing over 230, losing wickets is expected; that’s completely normal. The intent and performance from everyone was fantastic."
Rahane underscored the team's mentality, commending the boldness and confidence displayed by the batsmen during their innings. The Powerplay delivered 90 runs — their highest of the season — and the momentum never wavered even as the required run rate increased. "If batters took a bit longer, it was an excellent wicket for batting," he commented.
His innings combined calculated aggression with composure. He recognized the significance of pacing the innings correctly on a pitch that provided true bounce and shot value. His performance kept KKR in contention deep into the second half. "Varun and Sunil typically dominate the middle overs, but today Sunil struggled. The bowlers faced challenges," he noted.
One area where KKR lost grip was in their bowling. Lucknow's total of 238/3 was bolstered by an explosive display from Nicholas Pooran and a strong start from Mitchell Marsh. Rahane admitted that their leading spinners — particularly Sunil Narine — couldn’t exhibit the control they usually possess during the middle overs.
