'They have a certain agenda against me' – Ajinkya Rahane lashes out at critics

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane hit out at those questioning his batting approach after a 65-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Asked about outside noise regarding his strike rate, Rahane, who scored 8 off 10, responded bluntly.

"I think I have one of the best strike rates so far from 2023," he said. "People who are talking about me probably are not watching the game or they have a certain agenda against me. They don't like me playing."

Since the start of 2023, his Powerplay strike rate (overs 1-6) is among the best:

However, against spin in overs 7-15, his strike rate drops to 114.02 in the same period.

Rahane suggested critics were jealous of his success.

"The amount of success which I got, I guess they are jealous of me. I am not too worried. Just one bad innings…my intent was there. People who are talking either don't understand the game or want me to play a different kind of innings."

Chasing 227, KKR were bowled out for 161, collapsing from 120/3.

Rahane said the pitch was good and credited SRH's bowlers for adapting.

"SRH bowlers saw what we did in the first innings. They got an idea. The first six overs were crucial for us. When you're chasing that target, you are going to lose momentum. What we needed today was that partnership."

KKR next face Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants at home on April 6 and April 9.