Kolkata Knight Riders opener Ajinkya Rahane made a good start to his IPL 2022 campaign for his new franchise.
Rahane, who was dropped from India’s Test squad against Sri Lanka, scored a fine knock of 44 runs in the tournament’s opener against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankheded Stadium, Mumbai on Saturday.
Rahane was able to time the ball to perfection and made the most of the powerplay overs. The right-hander was able to hit the ground running for KKR and played a fine knock. KKR were chasing only 132 runs and Rahane played an instrumental role in the run-chase as they won by six wickets.
Meanwhile, KKR bowlers did a fine job in restricting CSK to 131 runs on a difficult Wankhede pitch. The defending champions lost early wickets and they weren’t able to get the impetus on their side. Umesh Yadav bowled with brisk pace and he got two crucial wickets of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway in the powerplay overs.
Ajinkya Rahane said, “It’s good to win the first game against CSK. The first game is always important, but this is a long tournament. As a team, our bonding has been really good. We are enjoying each other’s success. Our preparation has been really good. It is important to start off well and credit goes to everyone for this victory.”
Rahane and Venkatesh Iyer added 43 runs for the opening alliance in the powerplay overs and gave a perfect start to their team in the run-chase. The veteran batter revealed he didn’t do anything different in his preparation.
“I didn’t go anything differently. The only difference was that I got a chance to play after a long time. Over the last two years, I have played very few matches. But thanks to KKR who backed me and gave me this opportunity and also the freedom to play. Before the tournament, I was focusing on my process and then I got this chance.”
On the other hand, Ajinkya Rahane added that the message has been very clear from head coach Brendan McCullum – to be aggressive in one’s approach.
“The message has been really clear from Brendon, for everyone actually, to play fearless cricket. He is someone who gives confidence to each and every individual. For me it was simple, to go out there and play my natural game, not to think too much about it. He’s been really good. He motivates each and every individual and backs them.”
KKR will play their second match of IPL 2022 against Royal Challengers Bangalore at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Wednesday.
