Ajinkya Rahane launched a fiery defense of his batting and leadership after Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) 65-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2026 at Eden Gardens on Thursday (April 2).

Rahane dismissed concerns regarding his scoring pace, claiming he has had "one of the best strike rates" since 2023. He suggested that those criticizing him likely have a "certain agenda" and "don't like to watch me play".

The KKR captain scored 8 off 10 balls against SRH, while he slammed 40-ball 67 in the campaign opener against Mumbai Indians (MI). However, the three-time champions suffered defeats in both games.

"My strike rate I think I have one of the best strike-rates so far. I think people who are talking about me are probably not watching the game or they have certain agendas against me. They don't like me playing, they don't like to watch me play," Rahane said in the post-match press conference.

He attributed the negative feedback to jealousy over his past success. "The amount of success I've had, I guess they are jealous of me. I'm not too worried. You guys know what I'm doing. Just one bad innings - well, not a bad innings - but my intent was there. Sometimes as a batter you don't get that rhythm, you don't get that flow. People who are talking either don't understand the game or want me to play a different kind of innings," Rahane added.

Rahane believes critics are struggling to adapt to his evolved, more aggressive playing style, which shifted significantly during his recent seasons. He views the public discourse—even the negative talk—as a sign that his game is relevant enough to be analyzed.

"You guys know what I am doing. Just one bad innings. Not a bad innings, but my intent was that sometimes as a batter you don't get that rhythm, you don't get that flow.

"People who are talking, they don't understand the game and I think they want me to play a different kind of inning. They didn't expect that Ajinkya Rahane will basically improve his game this much. So I am happy they are talking about me, negative or positive either way.

"I am really happy that they are talking, let them talk. But batting-wise, partner-wise, it's been amazing. We have a very good partnership in Mumbai," he remarked.

Rahane firmly defended his team's approach in the powerplay, stating he will back his side to play with freedom despite recent setbacks.

"For six overs, you always look to go fearless cricket. Play fearless cricket with freedom. At times, you will struggle. That's okay. It's important to accept. But I know what I am doing.

"I know what I did in the past and I back myself rather than thinking about it. Whoever is talking about me, let them talk," Rahane concluded.

Kolkata Knight Riders will next face Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens on Monday (April 6).

(With India Today Inputs)