Kolkata Knight Riders’ troubled IPL 2026 campaign took another hit on April 14, as they slipped to a 32-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings. Chasing 193, KKR never really found control in the innings and, once again, exposed the issues that have haunted them throughout the season. After the loss, skipper Ajinkya Rahane admitted that the team may need to rethink its combinations and regroup quickly.
“I think combination-wise, we thought the combination which we had last game and this was really good. I think it’s tough at the moment. Yes, we’re not winning matches, it’s tough. What is important for all of us as a group is to stay positive, keep our head up, keep our chin up, and just focus on the moment,” Ajinkya Rahane said after the game.
KKR’s batting, in particular, has been a major concern. Big-money signing Cameron Green has struggled to make an impact, managing only 56 runs in five matches. Against CSK, he fell for a golden duck to Noor Ahmad after walking in at No. 6, while his bowling has also failed to deliver the control and breakthroughs KKR would have expected.
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With just one wicket and an expensive economy rate, Green’s season has so far been well below par. The team’s top order has also lacked consistency, though KKR did try a few tactical tweaks against CSK.
One of the more notable changes was promoting Sunil Narine to open the innings, a move that showed flashes of promise but did not lead to a match-changing contribution. Finn Allen’s form has also become a concern, and there is growing speculation that KKR may look at replacements or reshuffle the XI.
Players like Rachin Ravindra and Tim Seifert could come into the conversation if the management decides to make changes, especially with Matheesha Pathirana expected to be available. Rahane stressed that such decisions will depend on results, but insisted the group must stay calm and keep backing each other.
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“Yes, we’ll have to sit in the dressing room, think about the combinations. We’ll have to make any changes. Sometimes you back the players, and if the results are going your way, then it’s okay. But if the results are not going your way, then you’ll have to think about the combination. Apart from that, it’s all about being positive and keeping our heads up,” Ajinkya Rahane added.
