"Proud of each and every one of the team": Rahane praises KKR's "attitude and determination" despite tough 2026 IPL season
Kolkata, May 25
Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Ajinkya Rahane reflected proudly on his side's fighting spirit in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, saying the team showed great resilience after a difficult start.
He emphasised how KKR stayed alive in the tournament by displaying character, positivity, and unity under pressure.
While admitting disappointment over missing out on play-off qualification, Rahane stressed that the squad's comeback in the second half of the IPL was a major positive and praised every player for their commitment and effort.
The three-time IPL winner missed out on the top four spot as they finished seventh in the points table.
"Talking about the kind of season we had, I'm really proud of each and every one. The situation we were in after six games and then from there coming back, keeping the league alive and playing that kind of cricket needed character, a good attitude and resilience. I'm really proud of each and every individual," Rahane said.
"Absolutely, there are a lot of positives. In the first half of the season there were key moments where we were losing out, but after that, coming back from there is never easy. IPL is a long tournament with a lot of pressure and high-pressure situations. But again, staying strong, having that character and attitude in every game and trying your best for the team - inside the dressing room we all were really happy. As I said, every individual put in that effort by going out there. This season didn't go our way and we didn't qualify, which is disappointing, but I'm really proud of everyone and the kind of effort we put in," he added.
KKR finished their 2026 IPL season with a big defeat to Delhi Capitals in their final league game of IPL 2026. KL Rahul slammed a classy half-century and Kuldeep Yadav picked up three wickets as DC defeated KKR by 40 runs in Kolkata on Sunday night.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I think KKR's bowling let them down big time in the first half. Kuldeep was brilliant for DC, but our spinners couldn't defend totals. Still, proud of the fight back. 💪
Rahane ji, we appreciate your words, but the team needs to work on finishing games. We lost so many close matches from winning positions. Attitude is good, but execution needs to be better next season. 🤔
KL Rahul's innings was top class! But I'm happy KKR didn't give up - that's the spirit of Indian cricket. Rahane's captaincy has been underrated. Let's bounce back stronger next year! 🏏
Really appreciate Rahane's positivity. In IPL, it's easy to lose confidence after a bad start, but this team showed good mental strength. Hope the management gives this core group another chance. 🙌
Bro, I respect the captain's attitude, but 7th place is not something to be 'proud' about. Need to be honest about our weaknesses - especially batting in the middle overs. Let's not sugarcoat things. 😕
As a die-hard KKR fan since 2008, this
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