‘It’s always about playing with freedom’- Ajinkya Rahane on changing his batting approach with KKR in IPL 2025

Prior to the 2025 IPL season, defending champions KKR named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain. After an incredible season with Mumbai in the 2024–25 domestic schedule, the seasoned batter will be seen leading the charge.

Fans saw a different side of Rahane during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), despite the fact that he is known for playing the anchor role, particularly in the white ball format. The Ashwi-KD native played freely under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, finishing the event with the most runs scored. The star batsman recently revealed his new strategy, scoring 469 runs at a strike rate of 164.56 and an average of 58.62.

The others would play around me, and it was always about being the anchor. (But the) Over the past two to three years, it’s always been about playing freely, playing fearless cricket, and going out and backing my game.

I’m trying to do that, but it’s also about sticking to my procedures and routines and being true to the game,” Ajinkya Rahane stated during a Mumbai event, as reported by News18.

“I’m doing okay batting-wise for me. I had a great domestic season and was rewarded with the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. I am therefore confident in myself; all I need to do is remain in the present, maintain my composure, and continue to support myself while avoiding thinking too much about the future or the past. The cricket player continued, “It’s always about enjoying my game and getting better at it.”

Speaking about KKR, the three-time champions will play Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the tournament’s opening match at Eden Gardens on March 22 to begin their IPL 2025 campaign. Rahane, who was purchased for INR 1.5 crore, intends to successfully defend the championship in 2025 in an effort to continue Kolkata’s tradition.