Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane was forced to leave the field during the second half of his team’s Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against the Mumbai Indians on Sunday after suffering from severe cramps in both calves. The 37-year-old opener appeared in visible discomfort during Mumbai’s chase and could not continue despite receiving on-field treatment.

Rahane went down after the completion of the fourth over in Mumbai’s innings while defending a formidable target of 221. Team physiotherapists attended to him as he lay on the ground for several minutes. Although he initially required assistance from teammates to stand and briefly leaned on their shoulders, the veteran batter eventually walked off the field on his own, albeit with a noticeable limp. In his absence, vice-captain Rinku Singh assumed leadership duties for the remainder of the match.

Providing an update after the game, Rahane dismissed concerns about a more serious injury. He clarified that the issue was limited to cramps affecting both calves and not a hamstring strain, which had been feared initially. “Feeling okay, just a lot of cramps to my calf and both the calves actually. So hopefully I’ll be okay,” Rahane said, suggesting that the injury may not sideline him for long.

Also Read: KKR Captain Ajinkya Rahane Emphasises Positive Approach Ahead Of IPL 2026 Season

Earlier in the match, Rahane had played a pivotal role with the bat, anchoring Kolkata Knight Riders’ innings with a well-constructed 67 off 40 deliveries. His knock included five sixes and three boundaries and helped set the platform for a commanding total of 220/4. He reached his half-century in just 27 balls before slowing down after the powerplay, eventually falling to Shardul Thakur in the 14th over.

Despite the strong total, Mumbai Indians successfully chased down the target with five balls to spare. A dominant 145-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton dismantled the KKR bowling attack, which was led by stand-in captain Rinku Singh in Rahane’s absence.

Looking ahead, Rahane will be aiming for a swift recovery as Kolkata Knight Riders prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next fixture on April 2. His fitness will be closely monitored, given his importance to the side both as captain and a key contributor at the top of the batting order.

Also Read: Dwayne Bravo's Controversial Hot Mic Comment at KKR Presser Forces Rahane to Step in Fast