Ajinkya Rahane has been announced as the new captain of Kolkata Knight Riders for the IPL 2025. While Venkatesh Iyer has been named the vice captain and might play a key role for KKR in the upcoming years, Rahane’s role as the skipper will be crucial for KKR to defend their title in 2025. After a terrific season for the Kolkata-based franchise in 2024, there will be huge expectations from the fans.
Ajinkya is one of the greatest captains India has ever seen. While he isn’t known for his exploits in the limited overs formats, Rahane can shine when given a clarity in role and a platform to perform. It will now be his responsibility to ensure that KKR would be in safe hands. His role will be crucial for the 3-time champions to defend their title. Rahane’s batting form and decision making will be in spotlight after the departure of Shreyas Iyer.
Three reasons why Ajinkya Rahane could be a good choice for KKR as a captain in the IPL 2025:
Ability to back the players
Ajinkya is known for backing the players during their tough times. The best display of it was during the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21 when he gave confidence for the players out of form like Cheteshwar Pujara and the players who were new to the side like Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, and others.
When a captain backs the players to perform a certain role, it helps them to bring their better version. It is the same school of thought as that of MS Dhoni. Rahane knows the importance of having a secure dressing room environment, which is essential for the success of a team. The best way to ensure it would be to back the players.
Lack of better options
KKR does not have a lot of options in terms of individuals who can lead the side. Two of KKR’s biggest legends, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, aren’t known for their captaincy. That leaves KKR with options like Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, and Quinton De Kock. Neither of them have a portfolio to lead an IPL side.
While Iyer could’ve been a good option, considering his crucial role in the revival of KKR, he doesn’t have an experience of leading many teams. Hence, he was named the vice captain of the team. Rahane leading KKR would be a good option, as knows what it takes to win big tournaments like the IPL.
Experience as a captain
Rahane has been one of the best captains in world cricket despite the lack of opportunities. He helped India to win some major series like the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2017 and the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21. He additionally helped his domestic side, Mumbai, to reach the Knockouts of many tournaments.
Rahane is a proven captain and has a lot of experience in leading the side. KKR might need someone like him who can be the face of the side in the absence of Shreyas Iyer and Gautam Gambhir, both of whom played a key role in their third title win. Rahane can play a key role in shaping up Venkatesh as their future captain.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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