In the current IPL 2026 season, a verbal war broke out off the field, initiated by one of the greatest Indian batters, Virender Sehwag, who confronted Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Ajinkya Rahane for his recent criticism of the fans and critics. After KKR’s 65-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens on April 6 2026, a frustrated Rahane, in response to those questioning his strike rate, accused them of having an “agenda” against him.
Virender Sehwag, while speaking to a popular sports platform, gave a lesson or rather scolded the KKR skipper, telling him to stay neutral and not to get involved in the exchange of words with the critics.
Virender Sehwag Uses Sachin Tendulkar Example To Calm Ajinkya Rahane
During a post-match discussion, Virender Sehwag noted that a player of Ajinkya Rahane’s stature does not need to justify his batting style through press conferences.
“I don’t think players should say all of this. I know he is the captain, and he was asked why Cameron Green is not bowling, he did not have a straight answer for that, so he said to ask Cricket Australia. I can understand that. But if someone is questioning my strike rate or batting style, people will praise you and criticize you, but you have to be neutral with both,” Virender Sehwag opined during post-match analysis on cricbuzz.Â
Sehwag drew a massive parallel with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, recalling a time when a newspaper famously printed the “Endulkar” headline to suggest the Master Blaster’s career was over.Â
Sehwag pointed out that Tendulkar never issued a verbal response, instead choosing to answer through his bat. He also cited Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan as another example of a public figure who maintained silence in the face of criticism, suggesting that responding to critics is effectively a “win” for them.
Why is there a need to engage in such fights? They seem that they are answering the critics, but even Bachchan saab (Amitabh Bachchan) never answered his critics. There could not be a bigger example than Tendulkar, one newspaper had even written ‘Endulkar’. Did he issue a response for that? If you respond, then it is a win for the critics, not for you,” the ODI World Cup 2011 winner added. Â
Kolkata Knight Riders Struggle Near Bottom Of Points Table
The off-field drama comes at a time when the Kolkata Knight Riders are facing a difficult start to their IPL 2026 campaign. Currently, KKR finds itself languishing at the 8th position in the points table, having failed to secure a win in its first three outings.
With two losses and one “no result” due to rain against Punjab, the three-time champions have only 1 point and a concerning net run rate of -1.964. The team’s inability to defend large totals or chase down targets effectively has placed immense pressure on Rahane’s leadership and the middle order’s performance.
KKR Faces High Stakes Clash Against Lucknow Super Giants
Looking ahead, Ajinkya Rahane and his men have a chance to turn their fortunes around in their next home game. KKR is scheduled to take on the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Eden Gardens.
This Match 15 of the tournament is a must-win for the hosts if they wish to climb out of the bottom half of the table and keep their playoff hopes alive
