Synopsis
Ajinkya Rahane, captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, expressed disappointment after his team's poor batting performance, failing to chase 112 runs against Punjab Kings at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. The defeat highlighted critical issues in shot selection and overall responsibility.Key Takeaways
- Rahane takes responsibility for the batting failure.
- Kolkata Knight Riders were bowled out for 95 runs.
- Yuzvendra Chahal had a standout performance with 4-28.
- Punjab Kings achieved a 16-run victory.
- Kolkata’s poor shot selection was a key factor in the loss.
New Chandigarh, April 15 (NationPress) Kolkata Knight Riders' skipper Ajinkya Rahane expressed his dissatisfaction with the team's batting display after their inability to chase down 112 runs against Punjab Kings at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi formed a promising 60-run partnership, putting Kolkata in a position to claim victory. However, a pivotal moment occurred when Yuzvendra Chahal dismissed Rahane LBW, disrupting the partnership. Despite consultations with Raghuvanshi, Rahane opted against reviewing the decision, only to find out later that the ball was missing the stumps. This led to a dramatic collapse, with Kolkata being bowled out for 95 runs in just 15.1 overs.
"There’s nothing more to say; we all witnessed the events unfold. I’m quite disappointed with our performance. I’ll shoulder the blame for playing an incorrect shot, although it was evident the ball was missing. My conversation with Angkrish was uncertain; he mentioned it could be an umpire’s call. I chose not to take a risk at that moment as I was unsure as well," Rahane remarked post-match.
"We didn’t consider our Net Run Rate at that point. We batted poorly as a collective, and we accept full accountability. Our bowlers performed exceptionally well on this pitch, limiting a formidable Punjab batting lineup to 111 runs. As an individual, maintaining confidence and positivity is essential," he added.
Rahane further criticized the shot selection of his teammates and took full responsibility for the defeat.
"On this wicket, employing the full face of the bat would have been more effective. The sweep shot was challenging to execute. We need to maintain our intent but play proper cricketing shots. We were too reckless and must accept full accountability. At this moment, my mind is racing with thoughts. This was an easy chase for us. When I go upstairs, I must stay calm and consider what to communicate to the players. Positivity is crucial; half of the tournament is still ahead. We need to tackle this and move on," he stated.
Chahal achieved his career-best tournament figures of 4-28, while pacer Marco Jansen secured three wickets, leading to a thrilling 16-run victory for Punjab Kings.
With eight points from six matches, Punjab Kings have climbed to the fourth position, while KKR languishes at sixth place with six points from seven games.
