Ajinkya Rahane is on the verge of creating history in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as he is set to become the first Indian cricketer to captain three different franchises. After leading Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) in previous seasons, Rahane has now been entrusted with the captaincy of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2025 edition of the tournament. This remarkable achievement highlights his leadership abilities, resilience, and adaptability in one of the most competitive T20 leagues in the world.
Rahane’s IPL Captaincy Record
Rahane has captained in the IPL before, but his leadership record has been a mixed bag. He first took charge of Rajasthan Royals and later briefly captained Rising Pune Supergiant in a single match. His overall captaincy record is as follows:
- Total Matches as Captain: 25
- Wins: 9
- Losses: 16
- Win Percentage: 36%
Despite an average win percentage, Rahane showcased his leadership skills by guiding RR to the IPL 2018 playoffs. His strategic approach and calm demeanor have often been praised, making him a valuable leader on the field.
Leading Multiple Franchises: A Rare Feat in IPL
Over the years, only a handful of players have had the opportunity to lead multiple IPL franchises. While many Indian cricketers have captained two different teams, Rahane is now set to become the first to captain three. Before him, only a few international players had achieved this milestone, including:
- Steve Smith: Captained Pune Warriors India, Rajasthan Royals, and Rising Pune Supergiant
- Kumar Sangakkara: Led Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Deccan Chargers
- Mahela Jayawardene: Skippered Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Daredevils, and Kochi Tuskers Kerala
Rahane now joins this elite group, making his achievement even more special. It is a testament to his leadership skills and the trust that franchises place in his ability to guide a team effectively.
Rahane’s IPL Journey and Role in KKR
Rahane’s IPL journey has been eventful, spanning across multiple franchises. He started his IPL career with Mumbai Indians in 2008 but gained prominence with Rajasthan Royals, where he spent several successful seasons. He also played for Rising Pune Supergiant and Delhi Capitals before joining Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022. Following his stint with KKR, he moved to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he played an important role in their 2023 title-winning campaign.
In the IPL 2025 auction, KKR secured Rahane for INR 1.5 crore, emphasizing their faith in his leadership and experience. With a young squad and a mix of experienced players, KKR aims to leverage Rahane’s tactical acumen to make a strong impact in the upcoming season.
What Rahane’s Captaincy Means for KKR in IPL 2025
KKR’s decision to appoint Rahane as captain signifies a strategic move aimed at bringing stability and experience to the team. Over the years, KKR has seen multiple captains, from Gautam Gambhir’s successful reign to the brief captaincy stints of Dinesh Karthik, Eoin Morgan, and Shreyas Iyer. Now, with Rahane at the helm, the franchise is looking for a leader who can guide the team with a composed and tactical approach.
Rahane’s experience in handling pressure situations, his ability to anchor innings, and his understanding of the game make him an ideal candidate to lead KKR. His leadership will be crucial in managing the young talents in the squad and ensuring a balanced team performance throughout the season.
Challenges and Expectations
While Rahane’s appointment as captain is a historic moment, it also comes with challenges. KKR will expect him to improve his captaincy record and lead the team to success. With strong teams like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Gujarat Titans in the mix, the competition will be fierce.
Additionally, Rahane will need to balance his role as a captain and a batsman. His form with the bat will be crucial for KKR’s success, and he will need to deliver consistent performances to set an example for the rest of the squad.
Conclusion
Ajinkya Rahane’s appointment as KKR’s captain for IPL 2025 is a landmark moment in his career and IPL history. By becoming the first Indian player to lead three different franchises, he has cemented his place among the most experienced leaders in the tournament. His calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and vast experience will be key assets for KKR as they aim for a successful season.
While challenges lie ahead, Rahane’s leadership and determination could be the driving force that helps KKR compete for their third IPL title. His journey from being a dependable batsman to a leader across multiple teams is a testament to his resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of T20 cricket.
