IPL 2025: Ajinkya Rahane’s 26-ball fifty boosts KKR chase against LSG — fans say ‘T20 beast! upgrade over Shreyas Iyer’

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane gave fans plenty to cheer for as he smashed a quickfire half-century against Lucknow Super Giants in their IPL 2025 clash. LSG had earlier put up a huge target of 239 runs, but Rahane’s clean and confident hitting gave hope to KKR fans.

Rahane’s rapid fifty gives KKR a solid start

Ajinkya Rahane reached his second fifty of the season in just 26 balls, with a clever shot off Avesh Khan that slipped past short fine leg. Partnering with Venkatesh Iyer, the duo stitched a 50-run stand, keeping KKR alive in the chase. One of the highlights was Rahane's top-edge boundary off a short ball that flew over Rishabh Pant’s head. KKR were 149/2 at the end of 12 overs, needing 90 runs from 48 balls.

Shardul Thakur’s struggles and on-field drama

Shardul Thakur had a tough time with his bowling. He opened his over with three wide balls in a row, eventually ending up bowling five wides. Even with just one review left, he pleaded with captain Rishabh Pant to go for a review on a wide call. Zaheer Khan, watching from the sidelines, looked visibly worried.

Rahane and Iyer build a strong partnership

The Rahane-Iyer partnership was filled with smart cricket. Iyer’s reverse sweep went for a boundary and added to their 50-run stand. Rahane, on the other hand, played with calm aggression, targeting gaps and keeping the scoreboard ticking.?

Fans celebrate Rahane’s form on social media

Rahane’s performance quickly became the talk of social media.
One fan said: “Ajinkya Rahane is a man possessed. T20 beast! What are the odds he returns as Test captain in England?”?

Another fan wrote: “Captain Rahane leading from the front—along with Russell, he's giving it his all.”?

A third post praised his growth: “Who would've thought he'd be in the Orange Cap race! Rahane has really levelled up in T20s.” A fourth user added: “Rahane is clearly an upgrade over Shreyas Iyer.”?

Another user said: “If Rahane had a PR team, he'd be playing for India in all formats already.”

Ajinkya Rahane’s smart and explosive knock gave fans hope in a big chase and reminded everyone of his class and adaptability.