KKR bought Rahane for INR 1.5 crore in the IPL 2025 auction.
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a surprising addition to their squad when they bought Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane for INR 1.5 crore in last month’s Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) auction.
Although Rahane is no longer in the national team, he is trying his best to become a mainstay for KKR in next season’s XI.
During Mumbai’s quarter-final match against Vidarbha in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), Rahane bore testimony to his batting prowess by hitting a deft knock of 84 (45), at an impressive strike rate of 186, 67 and helped Mumbai chase a lofty target of 222 runs.
Following Rahane’s exquisite knock, KKR fans took to social media to express their support for the 36-year-old batsman and bat for his inclusion as first choice in the KKR team. For the unversed, Rahane was a part of KKR in 2022 but featured in just 7 games, scoring just 133 runs at a measly average of 19.
Check out some of the best reactions below.
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Will Ajinkya Rahane be the next KKR captain?
While there is no official confirmation yet, Ajinkya Rahane is a name expected to be the favorite for the KKR captaincy job. Given his leadership experience as captain of India, Mumbai and Rajasthan Royals in IPL, KKR will definitely keep Rahane among their options to captain the team next season.
Furthermore, Rahane’s individual form has been brilliant, which may further support his cause. Ajinkya Rahane has been in excellent form during SMAT 2024, amassing 334 runs in six innings. He boasts an impressive average of 55.67 and a striking strike rate close to 170. Notably, he has recorded four half-centuries, his highest score being a 95 off 54 balls against Andhra, a crucial blow in Mumbai’s chase of 230.
Going into the new season, KKR will need to find a new captain and Ajinkya Rahane could be the one to take the reins.
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