3 Cricketers who could have been a better choice than Ajinkya Rahane for KKR captaincy

Ajinkya Rahane was appointed as the new captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday, March 3, ahead of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rahane led Mumbai admirably in Ranji Trophy 2024-25, helping the defending champions reach the semi-finals. He will now look to help KKR defend their title after they emerged victorious last season under Shreyas Iyer's reign.

Rahane was unsold in the first round of the IPL 2025 mega-auction last year. However, KKR signed him for his base price of INR 1.5 crore later during the event. This is Rahane's second stint with KKR after he was released by the franchise following a dismal outing with the bat in IPL 2022, where he scored 133 runs in seven games at a strike rate of 103.91.

Rahane has the experience of leading IPL teams like Rising Pune Supergiant and Rajasthan Royals. However, some fans aren't too pleased with the KKR management's decision to appoint Rahane in the pivotal role. The 36-year-old Rahane is a force to reckon with in red-ball cricket but his ability in the shortest format in the fag end of his career is under the scanner.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Ajinkya Rahane unveiled as KKR captain

In this article, CricTracker lists three players who could have been better options as KKR's captain for IPL 2025.

3. Rovman Powell

Rovman Powell was signed by KKR for INR 1.50 crore at the IPL 2025 mega-auction. The three-time champions were the only team to bid for the West Indian all-rounder. Powell was released by Rajathan Royals ahead of the auction.

The right-handed batter has been leading the West Indies in the shortest format since February 2023. The Caribbean side has fared decently under his leadership. However, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine will be starting in all the games unless they are injured. Having the 31-year-old as the leader of the side would have left KKR with only one overseas player's spot. They could either have a wicketkeeper or a fast bowler as their fourth overseas player.