Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane downplayed his strike rate issue after the defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday (April 2).
KKR lost
their second match in a row, first since 2012 as they fell to SRH by 65 runs at the Eden Gardens. Veteran batter and KKR captain Rahane got out for just 8 runs off 9 balls as they were chasing 227 runs.
Rahane has had his struggles with slower deliveries in the past and he got out to Jaydev Unadkat, who picked the KKR batter for the 5th time in 41 deliveries in the IPL. But when asked about his strike rate issue, especially when dealing with spinners, Rahane was quick to dismiss that.
"My strike rate, I think I have one of the best strike rates so far from 2023," Rahane said after the match.
Interestingly, Rahane has scored 1033 runs so far since the IPL 2023 season, batting at a strike rate of 147.8.
Ajinkya Rahane hints 'Agenda' against Him
The KKR captain further went on and claimed the critics had an agenda against him and labelled jealousy as the reason behind their call.
"People who are talking about me, probably not watching the game, or they have certain agenda against me. They don't like me playing. They don't like to watch me play. The amount of success which I got, I guess they are jealous about me. I am not too worried," he added.
"People who are talking didn't expect that Ajinkya Rahane would improve his game this much. So I am happy they are talking about me, negative or positive, either way," Rahane continued, albeit with a smile on his face.
Rahane not Worried after Two Defeats
Kolkata though, find themselves in trouble after back-to-back defeats. The team has been marred with injuries and unavailabilities, and the replacements have failed to raise the bar so far. Rahane although claimed he is not too worried about the issues.
"See the guys who are playing bowling at the moment, they are really good. It is just about the execution and that can happen. The newcomers, the nerves can get you. I feel it is a big stage for everyone. So it takes time. A couple of games, 2-3 games for someone. Very few players will be doing well for you from game number one. Guys will take 3-4 matches. It is important that we show that faith, that belief. "
